Nippers is where kids fall in love with the ocean, make lifelong friends, and learn skills that will keep them safe at the beach for years to come.

Every Sunday during summer, our beach comes alive with young people learning to swim, paddle boards, read the surf, and work as a team. It's active, it's fun, and it's all about building confident, capable, and sea-smart kids.

Whether your child is brand new to the beach or already a water baby, there's a place for them here.

What to expect

When: Sundays during the season

Where: Paekākāriki Beach

Arrive: 1:30 pm (sign in at the clubhouse)

Training starts: 1:45 pm with a beach and surf briefing, followed by beach activities at 2:00 pm

Every session is different depending on the conditions, but your child can expect a mix of swimming, board paddling, beach games, surf skills, and teamwork activities - all led by our trained and passionate volunteer coaches.

We run aged-based groups starting with Little Nippers (5-6 years old) through to U14. Your child is put in a group based on their age on 30 September.

What your child needs

Essential gear:

• Wetsuit
• Yellow and black Nipper hat (beach beanie) - compulsory ($26)
• High-visibility vest/rashie - compulsory ($30)
• Sunscreen
• Goggles
• Warm clothes for after training

Parent responsibilities

Supervision is key: An adult must remain with each child while at the beach. Children without a caregiver present may not be able to participate.

Stay informed: Listen for updates and announcements during the beach briefing at 1:45 pm.

Sign in: All participants must sign in at the clubhouse before heading to the beach.

Helping on the beach: There will be a volunteer white board roster on the beach where Nipper parents can sign up to set up and run flag pits, help out in the water, operate the BBQ and more. These are small things but will make a big difference! Keep an eye out for this and be prepared to take the opportunity to sign up.