The finalists for Surf Life Saving New Zealand’s (SLSNZ) Capital Coast Awards of Excellence have been announced.

These awards not only acknowledge the incredible skills, commitment, and effort by surf lifeguards to ensure the safety of beachgoers, but also those who have educated others, managed administration, and participated in lifesaving sport throughout the 2023/2024 season.

Charlie Cordwell, SLSNZ Central Regional Manager, said, “Well done to all the Capital Coast finalists. It’s great to see all their hard mahi being acknowledged. We have such a fantastic community who give up their time every season to keep beachgoers safe, and I couldn’t be prouder of them.

“Looking back on the 2023/2024 season, several points and highlights come to mind. Some of our northern Surf Life Saving clubs, like Palmerston North and Foxton, saw an increase in rescues due to changing beach conditions, keeping surf lifeguards busy. The Central Region Championships were a resounding success, and Levin-Waitārere SLSC reached a big milestone moving into their new building. Plus, there was exciting progress in the Search and Rescue space.”

The Capital Coast Awards of Excellence will bring together Surf Life Saving clubs from across the North Island, including Palmerston North, Riversdale, Foxton, Levin-Waitārere, Ōtaki, Paekākāriki, Tītahi Bay, Maranui, Lyall Bay, and Worser Bay.

Cordwell said, “It’s going to be a fantastic night celebrating all those who have given to their communities. Whether it’s the surf lifeguards, administrators, educators, or athletes – they’ve all played an important part and deserve recognition.”

During the 2023/2024 season, Capital Coast surf lifeguards spent over 18,000 hours on patrol, rescued over 85 people, performed over 220 first aids, and carried out over 2,300 preventative actions.

This year’s awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, 25 May at the Mana Cruising Club, Lyall Bay.

Full list of finalists:

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