Australia’s ‘highly skilled’ lifesavers take out surf rescue challenge

The 2025 International Surf Rescue Challenge was won today by Australia, who showed an incredible level of skill and determination. The final day of the three-day challenge was packed with excitement both on the beach and in the waves, and crowds of supporters turned out on Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach.

Australia had a decisive win with a total of 550 points, New Zealand was in second place with 524, and South Africa took third place with 421.

The pace of racing was elevated for surf events today as swells had dropped considerably after more dramatic conditions for tests one and two on Thursday and Friday. 

Australia’s head coach Zayne Hamil said; “My team put it together on the final day really, really well. We came away with lots of great performances and we're thrilled to have the overall win. Every single day's been different and has thrown up different challenges. The racing's been intense. We’ve been constantly adapting and so have the organisers and the officials and I think, collectively, everyone's done a great job. 

“What’s also been good is to have so many countries come together for this experience. Big waves across the first couple of days made it eye opening for a lot of countries who aren't as used to this as Australia and New Zealand – and even our athletes found it challenging - but everyone handled it well. The whole event changed where it needed to, and I think it was positive across all three days. This International Surf Rescue Challenge was fantastic. We love coming to Mount Maunganui and we appreciate the appreciate the hospitality.” 

New Zealand’s head coach Kev Morrison said; “I’m very proud of our team, they gave it everything they had, even when faced with some challenges today. The Australians are very highly skilled, and whenever any small opportunity presented itself, they knew how to run with it – they saw those sliding moments and maximised them. 

“As well as being so proud of our team, it’s so great to see lifesaving sport levelling up globally. Conditions on the first two days were the most challenging I’ve ever seen for a competition like this, and it was tough going but everyone stayed competitive. We’re seeing countries like USA and Japan scoring points that they wouldn’t have been able to a couple of years ago, they’re taking home some race wins too and that’s great for the sport.”

Zac Franich, GM Sport for Surf Life Saving New Zealand, said it was a proud day for lifesaving sport in New Zealand. “It’s been a real privilege to watch three days of the world’s best, and seeing these teams battle not just each other but also the elements. I’m proud of all competitors, as well as the team here who have delivered a genuinely memorable experience, especially for the next generation of surf lifesavers.” 

FINAL POINTS TABLE: INTERNATIONAL SURF RESCUE CHALLENGE 2025