2023/24 JSPJSP is finished for this season.
Swimming Ability
As a general guide, we expect our tamariki to have the following level of water confidence and ability at these ages. Please note, we cater to all and will work with you to find the best squad for your young person,
6 - 8 years
Need to be able to swim (any stroke) for at least 15 metres with their feet off the bottom.
8 - 11 years
Three tiers:
Need to be able to swim (any stroke) for at least 50 metres in waist deep water
Required to swim a minimum of 100 metre (and ideally 200 metre) in deep water, in the ocean
Required to swim a minimum of 200 metres in deep water, in the ocean
11 - 13 years
Two tiers:
Confidently complete a 200 metre buoy swim
Confidently complete a 200 metre buoy swim under 4.5 mins
Level 1
Confidence in the water
Theory questions on keeping safe at the beach
Level 2
Bodysurfing and wading technique
Nine theory questions
Level 3
50m pool swim
Catching waves
Theory questions covering surf lifeguard roles as well as keeping safe at the beach
Level 4
200m pool swim
Correct technique for duck diving
Identifying rips and wave types
Level 5
Increased skill development for surf swimming
Theory questions cover setting up for patrol and parts of the inflatable rescue boat (IRB)
Becoming a Rookie Guard
Once graduated from the Junior Surf Programme, our members can progress to a Rookie Guard, volunteering time on the beach and undertaking further study to progress to a qualified lifeguard position.
Targeting 13 year old Junior Surf members, this is a transition programme for those wanting to become Surf Lifeguards. The programme can take up to 8 weeks to complete.
Able to swim 200m in a pool under 4.5 mins
Current club member
Available to particpate in four patrols (minimum 12 hours total)
Complete all Rookie Surf Lifeguard Log Book Modules
Becoming a lifeguard, yes adults too!
We have volunteer and paid lifeguard positions available within our club. You must be at least 14 years old, be a member of a Surf Lifesaving Club, attend regular training sessions and pass the SLSNZ Surf Lifeguard Award Examination. We also offer an adult training programme.
The exam comprises of:
400m pool swim in under 9 minutes
Rescue releases assessment in the pool
Run/swim/run in the surf
Tube rescue assessment
Practical surf knowledge test and theory exam
