Oceans ‘26 - four days of junior surf lifesaving energy coming to Pāpāmoa Beach

More than racing: junior sport that builds lifesavers 

Across the four days, competitors will take on a wide mix of surf lifesaving disciplines, including swimming, board paddling, beach sprints, flags, team relays, and surf races. The action is fast, loud and full of club pride, with team chants, colours, and supporters lining the beach. 

But behind every start line is the same foundation: ocean awareness, judgement, teamwork and confidence that matters well beyond the competition arena. 

“Junior surf is one of the best ways we build capable, confident lifesavers,” says Zac Franich, GM Sport for Surf Life Saving New Zealand. “Oceans brings young people together in a positive environment where they learn to back themselves and work as a team. Those are the same qualities that make great lifeguards in the future.” 

Oceans is designed as a fun and family-friendly festival, and spectators are encouraged to come down and be part of the atmosphere. 

Competition Days: Thursday 19 - Sunday 22 February | Racing from 9.00am - 3.00pm each day (estimated) 

Powered by volunteers 

Oceans also reflects the strength of surf lifesaving’s volunteer culture. From officials and coaches to water safety teams, managers and club whānau, the event is made possible by people who give their time to create a safe, supportive and unforgettable experience for every young athlete. 

A boost for the local community 

Across four days, Oceans brings a vibrant, festival energy with clubs travelling in from around the country and families spending time on the beach, in local cafés and shops, and around wider the Tauranga-Moana community. It’s a celebration of youth sport development, beach safety, and a chance to see surf lifesaving at its best. 

Good luck to all participants! 

To every junior athlete pulling on club colours and heading to the Bay of Plenty, good luck. Oceans is a chance to challenge yourself, back your mates, and enjoy the buzz that comes from being part of something bigger than a single race. 

Whether you’re competing, coaching, managing, officiating or cheering from the sand, Oceans is a proud showcase of junior sport and the wider surf lifesaving community behind it, and a reminder of how surf sport helps shape the lifeguards who will keep Aotearoa’s beaches safe for years to come. 

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