The finalists for Surf Life Saving New Zealand’s (SLSNZ) Bay of Plenty and Coromandel 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.

Avan Polo, SLSNZ Eastern Regional Manager, said, “Well done to all the Bay of Plenty and Coromandel finalists. It was a busy year with beautiful weather luring thousands of beachgoers to the stunning beaches that make up our region. Mount Maunganui also played host to three of SLSNZ’s big sporting events! They went off without a hitch and truly displayed the best of our community.

“During the 2023/2024 season, many clubs also experienced significant development. We witnessed record demand for regional courses like Wāhine on Water, and we qualified 155 new surf lifeguards, 33 new patrol supporters, and 26 new Inflatable Rescue Boat drivers. These are fantastic numbers and demonstrate how members are eager to improve and add to their skills.”

The Bay of Plenty and Coromandel Awards of Excellence will bring together Surf Life Saving clubs including Hot Water Beach, Tairua, Pauanui, Onemana, Whangamatā, Whiritoa, Waihi Beach, Mount Maunganui, Omanu, Papamoa, Maketu, Pukehina, Whakatāne, and Ōpōtiki.

Polo said, “This is definitely a highlight on the calendar for many clubs, as it’s not only a night of celebrating but a great way to catch up and reflect on the season that’s been. We hope everyone raises a glass and has a great night.”

During the 2023/2024 season, Bay of Plenty and Coromandel surf lifeguards spent over 16,000 hours on patrol, rescued over 70 people, performed over 150 first aids, and carried out over 1,600 preventative actions.

This year’s awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, 20 July 2024 at 5pm at the Papamoa Surf Life Saving Club.

Full list of finalists:

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