Surf

Green Wave has been up and running for a couple of years now. Give us an update. How’s it all going?

We are actually just starting out our sixth summer now. It’s amazing how much support the Raglan community has shown, so we’d like to thank everyone for that. We love teaching and sharing something we’re passionate about with our students. And we’ve had phenomenal feedback as well - we’ve become the top-rated surf school in New Zealand. It’s nice to know that our students are having such a positive experience.

Who’s involved with the instructing?

There are three of us that run Green Wave together: Zennor Wernham, Wes Rogers and Bing Lyons. Between the three of us we have over 30 years coaching experience. We also have a team of talented local surfers and former Raglan Surf Academy students helping us out through the busy months.

People say how difficult it is to surf but what do you say to those who have never surfed and want to give it a go? Will they get up?

Everyone stands up on our lessons. We actually offer a stand-up guarantee or your money back, and so far we have a 100% success rate. We don’t really put any pressure on our students. Sometimes they might feel a little nervous before we start, but we keep everything fun and relaxed. Before they know it, they’re already up and riding a wave. With free photos to prove it!

Do you offer any kind of kids camp / summer holiday programs?

We are running kids camps through the school holidays! It’s a great way to introduce kids to surfing in a fun, safe environment. We offer weekly camps as well as daily drop ins to fit everyone’s schedule.

You offer daily lessons. Is it always at the same time?

Our lesson schedule is based on the best tides and conditions for each day. This ensures that our students surf at the safest time and the easiest tide for learning. This makes a huge difference in the quality of a lesson. You can check the summer schedule on our website at www.greenwaveraglan.com

Do you offer rentals as well?

Yes, we have a range of boards and wetsuits available for hire. Lots of soft-top beginner-friendly boards but also some good intermediate boards as well. You can ring us at 021 0841 3481 to inquire about rentals.

What can we expect from Green Wave this coming summer?

Lots of happy surfers, whether they’re keen travellers or local kiwi families. Our aim is to keep the quality of the lessons very high, with emphasis on ocean awareness. We put a lot of energy into every lesson and it’s rewarding to see how excited our surfers get as their skills progress.

THE SURFERS CODE

RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT AND EACH OTHER

Surfers to Ngarunui Beach, Manu Bay and Whale Bay will soon be seeing new ‘Surfers Code’ signs near the water.

Thanks to local funding by the Raglan Point Boardriders and a grant from Waikato District Council, the new signs will be up just in time for summer.

With the water getting busier and busier, knowing the rules and practising safety in the water is crucial here on the west coast. The main theme of the Surfers Code in Raglan: Respect the environment, the ocean and most importantly, each other.

The infamous waves at Manu Bay attract surfers from around the world. But before you jump in the water just to say “I’ve surfed Manu Bay in Raglan”, take time to think if you really should be surfing there.

1. Point Break Ability: Intermediate to Expert - No Beginners 2. Paddling Out: Paddle wide of the wave. If caught inside, stay in the white water. 3. Keep the Wave Face Clear: Keep out of the way of approaching surfers. 4. Give Way: Closest to peak has right of way. Wait your turn. Join at the end of the queue. 5. Remember to Communicate: Call It! Paddle with commitment and intent. 6. Control Your Equipment: Hold onto your equipment, it can be a danger to others. 7. Give Respect to Gain Respect: Don’t drop in! No snaking, blocking, fading or burning. 8. Respect the ocean, land and local community.

IN ANY EMERGENCY, DIAL 111.