bp Leaders for Life – Wellington weekend kicks off 2026 programme
Over the weekend of 7- 9 August, the 2026 bp Leaders for Life cohort gathered for the first workshop of the programme.
The group of 17 lifesaving leaders have been selected from clubs around New Zealand, plus one from Australia, and the workshop kicked off at Lyall Bay, one of New Zealand’s founding surf lifesaving clubs. The group then moved to the SLSNZ office in Wellington for the second and third days.
This year marks the 12th consecutive year that the programme has been sponsored by bp, and SLSNZ Member Development and Engagement Officer Poppy Crouch says the ongoing partnership is crucial for the organisation.
"It is fantastic to have bp on board as programme sponsor for the 12th year in a row, and we truly appreciate their support in helping us grow and develop the next generation of leaders to lead our clubs and movement into the future."
The initial workshop focused heavily on relationship building, self-management, integrity, and developing others. Candidates participated in a variety of sessions designed to build self-awareness and practical leadership skills.
A major highlight of the weekend was a presentation from SLSNZ board member Nathan Hight, who spoke to the group about why leadership is so important for SLSNZ, the local clubs, and individual members.
Candidates also completed Team Management Systems (TMS) personal profiles to better understand their own work preferences, which is a key part of their individual leadership journeys. Alongside this, the group engaged in practical activities like a problem-solving ladder challenge and a "Tree of Life" self-reflection activity to explore their personal values.
To bridge interpersonal gaps and foster strong bonds, the weekend was mixed with fun team-building activities. These included a ten-pin bowling session and a group dinner.
bp Head of Country Haley Mahoney says the company is thrilled to continue its support of the initiative for a 12th consecutive year.
"We are immensely proud to be involved with such a fantastic programme that develops great New Zealanders, and supports safer communities. Our team at bp have several opportunities during the course of the year to interact with the bp Leaders for Life cohort, and it is always a highlight."
The candidates will take these initial lessons back to their respective clubs before preparing for their second workshop in Tauranga later this year.