Pāpāmoa Beach delivered a vibrant opening day at Oceans 26, with favourable conditions, high energy and a festival atmosphere setting the tone for Surf Life Saving New Zealand’s flagship junior event.

A total of 731 competitors from 52 clubs took to the sand and surf today, supported by more than 100 volunteers across officiating, event safety, logistics, administration and first aid.

Clubs travelled from as far north as Ruakākā and as far south as Kākā Point, highlighting the national reach of the event.

Competition began after a pōwhiri — a significant milestone for Oceans — before surf races across all age groups, U14 tube rescue, and U11–12 beach sprints and relays were completed across four arenas.

SLSNZ (Surf Life Saving New Zealand) sport general manager Zac Franich said the atmosphere reflected what Oceans was all about.

Pāpāmoa Beach on the morning of Oceans Day 1. Photo / Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media

“It was a real celebration of surf lifesaving. With team events, strong performances from clubs of all sizes, and the beach buzzing with colour and noise, you could feel the confidence and camaraderie building. This event is about shaping future surf lifeguards, not just athletes.”

National events manager Luke Smith said the depth of competition stood out.

“We saw a great spread of performances today, with smaller clubs coming to the fore alongside some of our larger ones. Oceans is about bringing young people together from across the country, building skills, friendships and a sense of belonging that lasts well beyond the event.”

Day one medallists included competitors from Maranui, South Brighton, East End, Sumner, Muriwai, Omanu and Mairangi Bay, with strong showings across surf races, beach sprints and tube rescue events.

With racing continuing through to Sunday, Oceans 26 continues to showcase junior lifesaving as a sport with purpose, laying the foundations for the next generation of surf lifeguards while delivering a positive, high-energy event for the wider Pāpāmoa and Tauranga-Moana community.

Competitors from Mairangi Bay Surf Lifesaving Club on Oceans Day 1. Photo / Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media