Become a Lifeguard

KEEN TO JOIN THE TEAM?

We are proud to have a life guard team at a range of ages and stages; from 14 – 70 plus everyone is welcome. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a Lifeguard at Whangamata get in touch with us now!

Whangamata Surf Life Saving Club hosts a lifeguard training camp in October each year, additional training dates and adult training formats will be confirmed later in the season.

Fill out the form telling us a little bit about what you are interested in and we will get back to you.

Become A Lifeguard Enquiry

The perks of becoming a lifeguard at Whangamata SLSC

  • You get to stay in beachfront accommodation; only needing to complete four hours of patrol the following day
  • You get to attend some exciting events; including our annual opening weekend, weekly potluck dinners, Easter celebrations, and fun club competitions
  • You have the chance to meet some awesome people and form lifelong friendships
  • You can compete in a number of different Life Saving sports at local, regional and international level
  • You can constantly up-skill with courses being offered from First aid, using medical oxygen and defibrillator, to IRB driving and finally using all the skills you have learnt to train new lifeguards!
  • Opportunity for paid employment as a lifeguard at Whangamata and around the country. 

Requirements to become a Volunteer Surf Lifeguard at Whangamata

  • Minimum Age: 14
  • Attend a Surf Lifeguard training camp
  • Pass the SLSNZ Surf Lifeguard Award Examination.

The exam comprises: 

  • 400m pool swim in under 8 minutes 45 seconds
  • Rescue releases assessment in the pool
  • Run/swim/run in the surf
  • Tube rescue assessment
  • Practical surf knowledge test and theory exam

Once you are qualified you can start patrolling and are able to utilise Whangamata SLSC’s Lifeguard Skills / Development courses to extend your training and partake in our Surf Sport’s programme.

Being a Whangamata Surf Lifeguard is a great way to contribute to my community, enjoy great camaraderie with other club members and continue to learn new skills – most of which apply to life in general!

Nathan Hight – Life Member

Surf Lifeguard Award

The Surf Lifeguard Award is the first step in any lifeguards pathway and covers these essential skills.

  • Basic First Aid
  • Communication
  • Risk management
  • The physical environment
  • Roles and responsibilities
  • Surf Lifeguard Skills & Knowledge
  • Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Find out more: https://www.surflifesaving.org.nz/lifesaving/lifeguard-education/surf-lifeguard-award

Patrol Support Award

The Patrol Support award covers many of the same elements as the Surf Lifeguard award with the majority of training being done together.

Patrol supports critically are not trained for or required to perform water rescues, this award has been specifically developed for those who struggle to complete the exams water components but have a lot to offer to Life Saving operations.

Find out more: https://www.surflifesaving.org.nz/lifesaving/lifeguard-education/patrol-support