Next generation of surf lifesaving leaders announced for bp Leaders for Life!

Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) is proud to announce the successful candidates for the 2026/27 intake of the bp Leaders for Life programme. This advanced leadership development initiative is now entering its 12th year of ongoing support from bp and continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the organisation. 

This year, 18 outstanding candidates have been selected to take part in the 10-month programme. 

SLSNZ Programme Lead Poppy Crouch says the high level of interest reflects the dedication of members across the country. 

"Selection was incredibly hard yet again due to the volume of our members seeking out leadership opportunities," she says. "It is always inspiring to see so many young people eager to step up, develop their skills, and guide the future of surf lifesaving in New Zealand."  

The programme will commence in August with the first workshop held in Wellington at Lyall Bay, which is famously New Zealand's first ever established surf lifesaving club. Over the course of the year, the group will travel the country with subsequent workshops taking place in Tauranga, Auckland, Christchurch, and Papamoa. 

The curriculum features a dynamic mix of face-to-face workshops with facilitated sessions, presentations, and inspiring guest speakers. Candidates are also assigned a personal mentor for the duration of the programme to really work on their individual development and apply their learnings directly to their clubs. A major highlight of the curriculum will be Workshop 3, where bp will host a special leadership panel for the cohort. 

SLSNZ is incredibly grateful for the continued support of bp New Zealand. 

Haley Mahoney, bp New Zealand Head of Country, says; "This is our twelfth year supporting the bp Leaders for Life programme, and it is a privilege to play a part in nurturing the capabilities of these dedicated volunteers. Seeing them grow and take those leadership skills back to their communities is rewarding for our entire team. Good luck to all candidates, we look forward to seeing your progress!" 

The 2026/27 cohort includes 17 members from across New Zealand, as well as one participant from Australia. This marks the fourth year the programme has hosted an Australian candidate, welcoming Ella Arnold from Inverloch SLSC in Victoria. 

SLSNZ National Education Manager Dani Sheperd says this inclusion showcases the value of international collaboration. 

"The trans-Tasman links between the education teams in SLSNZ and Surf Life Saving Australia are incredibly strong," she says. "In addition to hosting Ella, we are fortunate to receive places on SLSA's National Leadership College and Leaders Masterclass. Sharing knowledge across the ditch strengthens the educational pathways and leadership potential in both countries."  

Congratulations to the following members selected for the 2026/27 bp Leaders for Life programme!