Turning Young Kiwis into Confident Surfers
Season: Late Spring – Early Autumn
Target Age: 9–13 years (Years 5–8)
Group Size: Up to 50 students per session
Since: 2012
Reach: 7,000+ students | 200+ schools
Overview
The Wave Warriors Learn to Surf Programme is Surfing New Zealand’s flagship school outreach initiative, designed to introduce tamariki across Aotearoa to surfing in a fun, safe, and educational environment. Our purpose-built surf trailer—loaded with wetsuits, boards, and safety-certified coaches—travels New Zealand’s coastline from late spring through to early autumn.
Students not only learn how to catch their first wave but also gain vital ocean awareness, build confidence, and connect with their local surf communities. Sessions are inclusive, dynamic, and adapted to each school group’s needs.
What’s Included
- Hands-on surf instruction from qualified coaches
- Beach and ocean safety education
- A 28-page Junior Surfer Log Book to track progress
- Links to local surf schools and boardrider clubs
- Fully managed setup with up to 50 students per session
Programme Goals
- Participation: Make surfing accessible to more Kiwi kids
- Skill Development: Deliver high-quality, age-appropriate coaching
- Professional Instruction: All instructors are qualified with international safety standards, First Aid & Community Lifesaving Awards
- Connection: Strengthen ties between schools, clubs, and regional sporting bodies
Junior Surfer Logbook
Every participant receives a 28-page Junior Surfer Logbook, guiding them through five progressive levels of surfing ability. It also features surf break info, beach safety advice, and key surfing etiquette.
Programme Impact
Since launching in 2012, Wave Warriors has delivered quality surf education to thousands of Kiwi schoolchildren, helping them gain confidence in the ocean and encouraging positive, active lifestyles.
Backed by Trusted Partners
Wave Warriors is proudly supported by Foundation North, Water Safety New Zealand, SunSmart, NZCT, and Regional Sports Trusts. This support ensures our programme remains safe, inclusive, and impactful for all participants.
Make a Booking
If your kura, primary, College or intermediate school would like to take part in this unique learning experience, we’d love to hear from you.
📩 Contact: lee.ryan@surfingnz.co.nz
📞 Phone: 021 116 0160
See the Programme in Action
- Piha Wave Warriors
- Muriwai Wave Warriors
- Far North Wave Warriors
- As featured on What Now!