Ōhope will host the 2026 Aon New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championships next month.

With 1200 competitors expected to battle it out on one of the best beaches the Eastern Bay of Plenty has to offer, the sand will be stacked with canoes, surf skis, surf boats, swimmers and beach runners as the pinnacle of surf lifesaving hits Ōhope’s waters.

The four-day competition runs from March 5 to 8 and involves surf lifeguards from across the country, ranging in age from 14 years through to masters’ competitors with decades of experience.

Whakatāne Surf Life Saving Club committee member Sherrie Thompson is excited for the upcoming event.

“Our athletes can be found training every day of the week, fitting sessions in whenever they can across canoe, surf boat, swimming, board, ski, running and flag events.

“Team events in particular are proving hugely popular and are a great way to compete, connect and have fun. It’s been awesome to see so many members getting involved.

“We’re also excited to welcome a strong group of first-time national competitors, adding to the buzz and sense of occasion around this event,” said Thompson.

Competitions such as the national championships play an important role in surf lifesaving, giving lifeguards a strong focus on staying fit, skilled and rescue ready.

“This directly benefits the wider water-using community, as capable and well-trained surf lifesavers are better prepared to respond when it matters most.

“Our members carry these skills with them wherever they go, making them a real asset not only to our club, but to beaches and communities around New Zealand and the world,” Thompson said.

Behind the scenes, the club has been working tirelessly with support from members, sponsors, volunteers and the wider public to deliver an event of this scale.

“Coach Simon Wills has been extremely busy leading the training programme in the lead-up, and we’re looking forward to showcasing not only our athletes, but also our beach, our town and our club on the national stage,” Thompson said.

With such a large event hitting local shores, it is shaping up to be well worth a watch. The club is welcoming everyone to come down to the beach, soak up the atmosphere, cheer on competitors from the sidelines and be part of four days of top-level surf sport and community celebration.