Surf lifesavers set to make a splash at the Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships

New Zealand’s best surf lifesaving talent will be joined by the next generation of competitors in Auckland next weekend, as surf lifesavers from across the country come together for the 2026 Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships.

The three-day championships, being held at the Sir Owen G Glenn National Aquatic Centre from Friday 2 to Sunday 4 October, bring together competitors from all over the country to compete, connect and showcase the rescue skills that are at the heart of the sport.

From world record holders to under-11s, 554 surf lifesavers from 35 New Zealand clubs will come together in Auckland. To add to the mix, competitors from Spain, Norway and Australia will be part of the racing.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand General Manager Sport Zac Franich says pool rescue is a highly technical sport that demands speed, strength, precision and the ability to execute a rescue under pressure.

“For our athletes, the competition environment is a chance to push those skills that are so valuable in surf rescue, where lifeguards need to be physically capable and able to make good decisions quickly.

“It’s also an important part of the athlete pathway. We’ve got young competitors coming through who can learn from some of our most experienced athletes, and seven of our current Black Fins plus seven Junior Black Fins will use these championships as part of their preparation for the Lifesaving World Championships in South Africa later this year.”

New Zealand’s Black Fins finished second overall at the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships, with the 2026 championships providing another opportunity for the country’s leading athletes to test themselves ahead of December’s event.

National Event Manager Luke Smith says the mix of ages and experience is one of the things that makes the championships special.

“It’s great to see our members come together from right across the country. It's the only event on the calendar that has young athletes competing alongside some of our most experienced competitors, and that creates a really positive environment for learning, connection and competition.

“The atmosphere at these championships is always a highlight, and we’re grateful to Aon for continuing to support an event that gives so many of our members the chance to compete and be part of something bigger than their own club.”

Aon CEO of New Zealand Melissa Cantell says Aon is proud to continue supporting the championships.

“Now in our third year as Major Partner, we're proud to support the Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships. This event showcases the skill, dedication and mahi of athletes, volunteers and supporters in preparing for the important role they play in communities across Aotearoa every summer.

"Supporting Surf Life Saving New Zealand at this event brings our shared purpose to life – better decisions lead to reduced risks, more resilient communities, and safer beaches across New Zealand. Wishing all the competitors the very best of luck!”

Around 50 experienced volunteers will be onsite across the three days to deliver the championships, from Aon Officials through to the in-pool support crew.

The 2026 Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships run from Friday 2 to Sunday 4 October, 8am to 5pm each day, at the Sir Owen G Glenn National Aquatic Centre in Auckland.

For more information, including links to event programme, visit: 2026 Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships