Swimming Ability
As a general guide
6 - 8 years
Delta squad: needs to be able to swim (any stroke) for at least 15 metres with their feet off the bottom.
8 - 11 years
Charlie squad need to be able to swim (any stroke) for at least 50 metres in waist deep water.
Bravo 2 squad is required to swim a minimum of 100 metre (and ideally 200 metre) in deep water, in the ocean.
Bravo 1 squad is required to swim a minimum of 200 metres in deep water, in the ocean.
Alpha Squads
Alpha 2 squad should be able to confidently complete a 200 metre buoy swim.
Alpha 1 squad should be able to confidently complete a 200 metre buoy swim under 4.5 mins.
Becoming a Rookie Guard
Once graduated from the Junior Surf Programme, our members can progress to a Rookie Guard, volunteering time on the beach and undertaking further study to progress to a qualified lifeguard position.
Level 1
Confidence in the water
Theory questions on keeping safe at the beach
Level 2
Bodysurfing and wading technique
Nine theory questions
Level 3
50m pool swim
Catching waves
Theory questions covering surf lifeguard roles as well as keeping safe at the beach
Level 4
200m pool swim
Correct technique for duck diving
Identifying rips and wave types
Level 5
Increased skill development for surf swimming
Theory questions cover setting up for patrol and parts of the inflatable rescue boat (IRB)
Becoming a Rookie Guard
Targeting 13 year old Junior Surf Members, this is a transition programme for those wanting to become Surf Lifeguards. The programme can take up to 8 weeks to complete.
Able to swim 200m in a pool under 4.5 mins
Current club member
Available to particpate in four patrols (minimum 12 hours total)
Complete all Rookie Surf Lifeguard Log Book Modules
Becoming a lifeguard, yes adults too!
We have volunteer and paid lifeguard positions available within our club. You must be at least 14 years old, be a member of a Surf Lifesaving Club, attend regular training sessions and pass the SLSNZ Surf Lifeguard Award Examination. We also offer an adult training programme.
The exam comprises of:
400m pool swim in under 9 minutes
Rescue releases assessment in the pool
Run/swim/run in the surf
Tube rescue assessment
Practical surf knowledge test and theory exam