The capability of surf lifesaving clubs across the country is set to increase following a major funding boost from the Infinity Foundation.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand has received a $1 million grant from the Hastings-based foundation to provide essential rescue equipment across the country and contribute to frontline operations.

A massive $1 million grant has been donated to Surf Life Saving New Zealand from Hastings based gaming trust Inifinity Foundation. Supplied Photo.

All of the country's 74clubs will benefit from the grant, with each set to receive a new rescue board and tablet for entering patrol information direct from the beach.

SLSNZ senior executive Matt Warren says this generous grant from Infinity will have a long term benefit to the charity organisation.

'The funding will enable us to bring to life many of the projects that, in the past, we have not been able to complete.

'The projects will have an ongoing affect for Surf Life Saving Clubs to improve services and leave a legacy in the coming years.”

Matt says the grant will help strengthen surf lifesaving services and ultimately benefit communities across New Zealand.

Rescue equipment is vital to the clubs' ability to provide core surf lifesaving activities but it is expensive and needs to be renewed on a regular basis, he says.

'Assistance like this frees up cash for the clubs and using bulk buying helps keep the cost down.”

SLSNZ has recently redeveloped its computer system which captures key operational information in real time at the beach, saving huge amounts of time.

Matt says central to this is the use of tablets at each patrolled beach to make this a reality for clubs.

'Time saved here will allow clubs to redirect resources from the back office to the beachfront where it's needed most.”

The grant also includes support for the High Performance sport programme and supporting the New Zealand Black Fins in their efforts to win the lifesaving world championship title for the third consecutive time.

Founded in Hawke's Bay in 2006, CEO Jason Fleming says the Infinity Foundation is excited by the opportunities that exist as a result of their funding support.

'The partnership with Surf Life Saving New Zealand is one where we will see tangible, immediate outcomes across so much of New Zealand. Ensuring safer beaches, where all Surf Lifeguards are well resourced, means everyone can enjoy these unique taonga," says Jason.

For more information visit Surf Life Saving NZ's website at: www.surflifesaving.org.nz or www.infinityfoundation.co.nz

All 74 Surf Life Saving New Zealand clubs will benefit from the grant, with each set to receive a new rescue board and tablet for entering patrol information direct from the beach. Supplied Photo.