The World's Best Surf Lifesavers Are Coming to Mount Maunganui

Mount Maunganui Beach is gearing up to welcome the world’s top surf lifesaving athletes as the 2025 International Surf Rescue Challenge (ISRC) returns to Aotearoa for the first time since 2017. From November 27 to 30, the beach will transform into a high-performance arena, showcasing speed, skill, and surf mastery at the highest level.

The ISRC is one of the most anticipated events on the global surf lifesaving calendar. Athletes from 11 nations will go head-to-head across swim, board, ski, and beach disciplines, battling through three intense test matches. Points will accumulate across each test to determine who will emerge as the International Surf Rescue Champion.

Adding to the excitement, spectators will also witness two iconic rivalries play out on the sand and in the surf:

• The Trans-Tasman Challenge (New Zealand vs Australia)
• The Tri-Nations Challenge (New Zealand, Australia, South Africa)

Both will run concurrently with ISRC, bringing even more energy, pride, and competitive fire to the Mount.

We’re inviting the public to come down, soak up the atmosphere, and cheer on the athletes as they take on some of the world’s toughest surf conditions.

Where to Follow the Action

Can’t make it to the beach? All the key updates will be available online:

• Live Results
• Daily Results
• Surf Life Saving NZ Instagram
• Surf Life Saving NZ Sport Instagram

International Teams Competing

This year’s lineup features a huge breadth of global talent:

Meet the Black Fins on Home Sand 

Our very own Black Fins will be competing on home turf – a rare chance to see New Zealand’s elite surf lifesavers in action.

Fans can meet the full squad at Mount Maunganui Main Beach at 4 pm on Saturday, 29 November, immediately following the Youth Clinic.

Meet the Team

Creating Safer Beaches Through Education

Alongside the international competition, Surf Life Saving New Zealand will deliver Beach Education sessions for local schools. These sessions help equip young people with essential surf safety skills — from reading the conditions to making smart decisions in and around the water.

Learn More 

Youth Clinic: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

Local junior surf athletes will join international competitors and coaches for the ISRC Youth Clinic, held on Saturday, November 29 (2–4 pm).

While the clinic is now fully booked, supporters are encouraged to head down to the beach to watch the action and support the next generation of lifeguards.

Dexion Mount Monster Returns

The adrenaline continues on Saturday, 29 November, when athletes take on the Dexion Mount Monster — one of New Zealand’s most challenging endurance surf events.

Competitors will battle through a brutal combination of running, swimming, board and ski paddling, with the famed Motūriki blowhole rock jump adding an iconic test of courage.

Athletes can compete solo or as part of a team.

Learn More 

Introducing Our Captains

SLSNZ is proud to announce the two athletes leading our national squads this month:

• Cory Taylor – Captain of the Black Fins at the International Surf Rescue Challenge
• Madison Kidd – Captain of the New Zealand team on the European Pool Rescue Tour

Read More

2025 ISRC Merchandise Now Available

Our brand-new ISRC merch range has officially launched, featuring tees, hoodies, and caps designed for athletes, supporters, and surf lifesaving fans everywhere.

Whether you're right on the shoreline or cheering from afar, keep an eye on our social channels for your chance to get your hands on the gear and show your support.

Shop Now

Joining us on the beach? 

Check out our handy Spectator Playbook to see what's on each day and stay updated on all the action. 

Read Now 

Countdown Is On

The 2025 International Surf Rescue Challenge is almost here, and Mount Maunganui is ready.

A huge thank you to our Major Partners for helping bring this world-class event to life.