From: Surfing New Zealand
Event: Sticky Johnson Primary School Championships Presented by Skullcandy
Location: Midway Beach, Gisborne
Dates: 20–21 September 2025
Micro Groms Set to Hit the Waves at Midway Beach
The Sticky Johnson Primary School Championships presented by Skullcandy return to Midway Beach, Gisborne on the 20th and 21st of September, and anticipation is building with just a few days to go.
As the ideal entry point for young surfers in Aotearoa, the event offers a fun, friendly, and educational experience that welcomes both first-timers and more experienced juniors looking to develop their competitive edge.
With some previous competitors now moving out of the primary school age categories, Surfing New Zealand is excited to see a new wave of fresh faces take to the water and bring the stoke.
This year’s event is already setting records, particularly in the Year 6 & Under Girls division, which has drawn its highest number of entries ever, a fantastic sign of the growing strength and interest in girls’ junior surfing.
The event’s round-robin format ensures every surfer gets multiple heats, building confidence, skills, and friendships in a low-pressure, inclusive environment. Divisions include Year 7 & 8 and Year 6 & Below for both boys and girls, allowing tamariki of all levels to get involved and experience a national event.
Held during the Term 4 holidays, the event gives groms from different regions a chance to take part. With epic prizes from event partners Skullcandy and Sticky Johnson Surf Wax, and a focus on participation and enjoyment, the Primary School Championships are more than just a contest- they’re a celebration of community, surfing, and youth development.
“We love seeing the next generation of surfers getting out on the water and having fun,” said Steve Morpeth, owner of Sticky Johnson Surf Wax. “Supporting the Primary School Championships is our way of giving back to the groms and helping them develop their skills, confidence, and love for surfing. Events like this are what keep our community vibrant, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
Whether your child is stepping into their first heat or looking to build on previous results, the Sticky Johnson Primary School Championships are all about opportunity, encouragement, and fun.
For more information, please contact Ben Kennings at Surfing New Zealand on 021 2278732 or benkennings@surfingnz.co.nz. Follow @surfingnz on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for updates, and visit www.surfingnz.co.nz for entry details and event info.
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