The Paekākāriki Surf Lifeguards are part of New Zealand's wider surf lifesaving movement (Surf Life Saving New Zealand). We're one of 74 surf lifesaving clubs across the country and have been patrolling Paekākāriki Beach for over a century.

Lifeguarding is our main priority - it's what drives everything we do. But it's also so much more than that. It's a place to meet amazing people, build valuable skills, have fun, and make a real difference by helping keep people safe on our patch of the coast.

Join our lifeguard team

We welcome anyone aged 14 and over to join us and become a qualified surf lifeguard. Whether you're looking for a new challenge, want to give back to your community, or just love the beach - there's a place for you here.

Lifeguard training (Rookie training)

We run our own training programme each surf season, following Surf Life Saving NZ standards. Our experienced senior lifeguards act as instructors, guiding trainee lifeguards through physical and classroom training to get you ready for the beach.

It's hands-on, supportive, and you'll be learning alongside others who are on the same journey.

Qualifying as a Surf Lifeguard

To become a qualified lifeguard, you must be 14 years old or older and pass your Surf Lifeguard Award exam.

The exam includes:

• 400m pool swim (under 9 minutes)
• Run/swim/run in the surf
• Resuscitation test
• Rescue test
• Theory questions
• Practical surf knowledge test

Staying Current

Each season, active surf lifeguards complete a refresher test to make sure everyone's fitness and knowledge stays sharp. This includes a swim, resuscitation test, and first aid questions.

Don't stress - it's not designed to catch you out. It's there to keep everyone confident and ready for whatever the beach throws at us.

Keen to join us?

Get in touch! admin@pslg.co.nz