Surf Sport Manual

Surf Life Saving patrol have existed in New Zealand for over 100 years. Patrols are equally matched by our strong history in Surf Sport competition.

Before Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) was formed, officiating at competitions was a responsibility of clubs, and later districts.

"History recalls the many difficulties confronting the officials carrying out this very important function. Records of the competitions for the Nelson and Wigram Shields between 1915 and 1932 indicate that at times the decisions of Honorary Judges were not always accepted with that degree of sportsmanship that could have been expected and desired." - Factual History of Surf Life Saving New Zealand 1910 - 1932, N A Ingram.

Today Surf Life Saving New Zealand provides athlete development programmes, coach and official accreditation, a national events programme and international competition.

For Lifeguards, coaches and officials taking part in Surf Sports will open up a whole new world to you.

The manual is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of private stufy, research, criticism, or review, as permitted under the Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any process without permission. Enquires should be address to Surf Life Saving New Zealand.

The rules in this manual are designed to assist in the conduct, control and management of all competitions held by of under the control of SLSNZ to provide a safe and fair framework within which surf lifesaving competitions are regulated and conducted.

This manual supersedes and replaces all previous SLSNZ Competition Manuals with effect from November 2017. The Manual may be amended by the Board at any time. Amendments will be issued in accordance with the Constitution and Regulations and will be available on the SLSNZ website.

SLSNZ will detail specific entry requirements, requirements, responsibilities and accountabilities within the Circular or any Entry Form. These specific entry requirements are deemed to be incorporated into this Manual.

Available version of the Manual

PDF Download

Download the the PDF version of the Surf Sport Manual (9th Edition Version 1) (pdf, 3.87MB)

Surf Sports Circular 17-SC05 - Surf Sport Competition Manual Update

To purchase a copy

Orders can be made through the SLSNZ shop, please contact your club administrators. Manual will be available by late January 2018.