Surf lifeguards strengthen search and rescue readiness through major training exercises

Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) members have taken part in two recent multi-agency search and rescue exercises in Lake Tekapo and Bay of Islands, helping build readiness for complex emergencies across Aotearoa.

The large-scale exercises brought together surf lifeguards and partner agencies to test coordination, communications, field operations, and response capability in realistic scenarios. As severe weather events and major incidents place increasing pressure on emergency services, the ability for agencies to work together effectively is becoming more important than ever.

Operation Oasis tests teams at Lake Tekapo

On 20 to 22 March, more than 200 search and rescue personnel from across Canterbury gathered at Lake Tekapo for Operation Oasis, a multi-phase training exercise designed to test search techniques, fatigue management, and operational decision-making over several days.

Twenty-five SLSNZ members took part, representing Waimairi Surf Life Saving Club, Waikuku Surf Life Saving Club, North Beach Surf Life Saving Club, New Brighton Surf Life Saving Club, Sumner Surf Life Saving Club and Taylor's Mistake Surf Life Saving Club.

The scenario involved a simulated multisport event, with missing kayakers and lost runners requiring coordinated land, water, and medical responses.

SLSNZ teams deployed IRBs, jet skis, specialist equipment, and new protective gear while working alongside New Zealand Police, Coastguard New Zealand, Land Search and Rescue New Zealand, Hato Hone St John and New Zealand Defence Force.

Northland exercise rehearses complex maritime emergency

From 17 to 19 April, surf lifeguards joined emergency services in Paihia for a large-scale maritime rescue scenario in the Bay of Islands.

The exercise was based on a realistic incident involving a passenger vessel striking Brampton Reef, with multiple people swept away by currents and dispersed along the coastline.

SLSNZ crews from Waipu Surf Life Saving Club and Ruakākā Surf Life Saving Club searched shoreline and surrounding waters using IRBs and jet skis, working alongside Police, Coastguard, LandSAR, New Zealand Red Cross, Amateur Radio Emergency Communications, and other response agencies.

The scenario tested how multiple agencies would coordinate during a fast-moving maritime emergency involving large numbers of people.

Building capability for real emergencies

SLSNZ ‘s National SAR Manager, Matt Cairns, said the exercises were critical to ensuring surf lifeguards were ready to support communities when needed.

“These scenarios allow us to test our systems, our equipment, and our people in realistic conditions, while learning alongside partner agencies.

“They also help other agencies better understand what surf lifeguards can bring to a response, particularly in the water, around coastlines, and in dynamic environments.”

Cairns said strong relationships between agencies were essential during real incidents.

“When emergencies happen, no one organisation does it alone. The more we train together, the better prepared we are to respond quickly, safely, and effectively.

“Our members already step up during coastal searches, floods, severe weather events, and other emergencies. Building that capability now means we are better prepared for whatever comes next.”