Ōhope’s main beach was in pristine condition for the start of the 2026 AON Surf Lifesaving Championships yesterday.

Hosts Whakatāne Surf Life Saving Club had spent days preparing the area, removing driftwood and debris and smoothing the sand in readiness for the four-day event.

As competition got under way, the beachfront quickly filled with tents, competitors and spectators stretching from the surf club area through to West End Beach.

Before the event had fully swung into action, Whakatāne’s Oliver Christie had already claimed victory in the U17 2-kilometre beach run, securing his second gold medal of the day.

Whakatāne club members continued to perform strongly throughout the day, including in the male and female ski and board races, as well as the relay events.

The relatively untested men’s surf boat crew were also on a high by early afternoon, recording three wins from three heats in the surf boat short course.

Temperatures are expected to rise as the competition heats up today, setting the stage for a true battle on the beach.