Next Event:
Sat 21st March
Piha Lifesaving Club
Have a Go Surfing Events
Who can participate?
Anyone of all ages who needs assistance in the ocean can participate. The Disabled Surfing Association understands that each participant has their own needs and requirements. Through training and experience we can identify these needs and requirements and tailor the surfing experience for each participant. Please note, participants should be accompanied by a carer during the events.
What does the Disabled Surfing Association Event involve?
The surfing events involve pairing up one participant with a minimum of six volunteers. The number of volunteers for each participant varies depending on their level of disability. Participants are taken into the broken waves of the surf where they are assisted in catching waves. Depending on their disability, participants can ride waves on their stomachs, backs or standing up. Volunteers are lined up either side of the participant as they ride the wave to offer immediate support at any time. In most cases, participants will ride tandem with an experienced volunteer.
Dates
2025/26 Events:
- Next Event:
Sat 21st March @ Piha Lifesaving Club
- Google Map – Piha Surf Lifesaving Club
- The health and wellbeing of our participants and volunteers, in and out of the water, remains paramount and our foremost concern.
- COVID-19 NOTE – Covid is still with us so please stay home if you are: unwell, a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19, waiting for a COVID-19 test result, self-isolating..
- We can’t wait to see you all again so let’s hope this summer is kinder to everyone!
- Please stay in touch via DSA Facebook page
- Where are the Auckland events held?: The Auckland events are held at Piha Beach (South Piha) next to Piha surf lifesaving club.
- How long do the events run for?: Event days generally run from 10.00 am – 1pm time depending on number of participants.
- Awards & BBQ: Surfing is followed by a BBQ and certificate presentation3
Registration
- Volunteers need to sign up at 8:30am, to attend the mandatory safety briefing and training at 9am before the event, meeting in the carpark outside of the surf club. Again, no prior surf experience required, bring a friend, its an epic day out!
- Participants sign in at 9:00am for a 9:30am start. No prior skills are required and we will cater to your experience and confidence in the water. Don’t forget to bring your wetsuit if you have one (no problem if you don’t, we have spares available). Last participant sign up at 11am, please aim to sign in prior to ensure a surfing slot.
- For more information, contact disabledsurfers@gmail.com
- Chat 021 081 89408
Does the location have wheelchair access & bathrooms?
Yes, Piha was chosen as the event location as it is wheelchair accessible and has disabled bathroom facilities available.
What do I need to bring?
Bring along your swimmers, towel, sunscreen, hat and warm jumper. If your own wetsuit bring that but we supply wetsuits for all sizes.
Do I need to pay?
The events are free but if you like you can join as a member. Annual membership is $20 and covers participation and BBQ at each event.
How long do the events run for?
Event days generally run from 10.00 am – 1pm time depending on number of participants. Surfing is followed by a BBQ and certificate presentation.
COVID-19 Protocols
NOTE: Please stay home if you are:
- unwell
- a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19
- waiting for a COVID-19 test result
- self-isolating
South Piha Event Location
Where are the events held?: The events are held at Piha Beach (South Piha) next to surf lifesaving club.
23 Marine Parade South, Piha 0772
- For more information, contact disabledsurfers@gmail.com
- Chat 021 081 89408