News

Black Fins squad confirmed for Lifesaving World Championships

Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) has named its 2026 Black Fins team for the Lifesaving World Championships, with New Zealand's best surf lifesaving athletes set to compete against the world's strongest nations in Port Elizabeth, South Africa this December. 

Held every two years, the Lifesaving World Championships bring together hundreds of athletes from around the globe for 5 days of competition across pool, beach and ocean events. 

Following another strong domestic season and impressive recent international performances, including world records, the Black Fins will head to South Africa in a solid position, looking to see podium finishes across multiple disciplines. 

Black Fins Campaign Lead Steve Kent said the team had earned its place through outstanding performances and was excited for the opportunity ahead. 

"Congratulations to every athlete selected. Representing New Zealand as a Black Fin is a huge honour and recognition of years of hard work. We've got an incredibly talented team with a great mix of experience and emerging talent, and we're looking forward to seeing them take on the world's best later this year." 

Our 2026 Black Fins team: 

Briana Irving (Waikanae)

Cory Taylor (Midway)

Fergus Eadie (Mairangi Bay)

Joe Collins (Fitzroy)

Louis Clark (Mairangi Bay)

Madison Kidd (Whangamata)

Molly Shivnan (Omanu)

Oska Smith (Omanu)

Pipi Te Pania (Omanu)

Rae Kwan (Mairangi Bay)

Sam Brown (Mairangi Bay)

Zoe Crawford (Mairangi Bay)

Supported by: 

Steven Kent - Campaign Lead

Steven Vaughan - Team Manager

Kevin Morrison - Coach

Tom Lowe - Coach

Andy McMillan - Coach

Lauren Johnson - Coach

Jodi Milne - Physiotherapist

Dr Theo Dorfling - Campaign Doctor