Oreti Surf Life Saving Club

Discover the Oreti Surf Life Saving Club, a dedicated community-service organisation focused on surf lifesaving in Southland. As a vital part of New Zealand's coastal safety network, the club emphasises protecting swimmers and fostering community engagement through volunteer efforts. Surf patrols operate from early November to mid-March at Oreti Beach, running from 12 noon to 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays. In peak summer, hundreds of visitors flock to this family-friendly spot, where our trained lifeguards ensure everyone enjoys the water safely. The club also runs a nipper programme tailored for children aged 7 to 13, introducing young members to water safety, rescue skills, and teamwork in a fun environment. Additionally, pathways for sport and development are available, helping members build skills that extend beyond the beach. Monthly meetings bring the community together on the first Monday of each month at 7.30pm at Splash Palace, providing opportunities to get involved and stay updated on club activities.

Location and Regional Appeal

Oreti Surf Life Saving Club is uniquely positioned as the southernmost surf lifesaving club globally, situated at Oreti Beach in Southland, just a short 10-minute drive from Invercargill. This prime location in New Zealand's southern region makes it an accessible hub for locals and visitors seeking a quintessential family beach experience. Oreti Beach stretches along the rugged Southland coastline, offering wide sands and gentle waves ideal for swimming, especially on those warm summer days that draw crowds from nearby areas. The club's presence here underscores its commitment to regional safety, blending the natural beauty of Southland's landscape with essential community services. Whether you're a resident of Invercargill or exploring the region, the club serves as a welcoming gateway to coastal activities, promoting water safety awareness across Southland's beaches.

Community Involvement and Programmes

At the heart of Oreti Surf Life Saving Club is a strong sense of volunteerism, with members stepping up to safeguard the public during busy patrol seasons. The nipper programme stands out as a cornerstone for youth development, engaging children aged 7-13 in structured sessions that teach essential surf lifesaving skills. These sessions not only prioritise safety but also encourage physical fitness and social bonds, creating lifelong advocates for beach preservation in Southland. For those interested in advancing, the club's sport and development pathways offer structured progression, from junior competitions to leadership roles within the surf lifesaving community. Meetings at Splash Palace provide a regular forum for planning and participation, ensuring the club remains responsive to the needs of its Southland members. Through these initiatives, Oreti Surf Life Saving Club continues to enrich the lives of families and individuals drawn to Oreti Beach's inviting shores.

Why Choose Oreti for Surf Lifesaving?

Choosing Oreti Surf Life Saving Club means joining a legacy of excellence in community service and surf lifesaving. Situated in the heart of Southland, the club combines practical beach patrols with educational programmes to create a safer, more connected coastal community. Volunteers play a pivotal role, patrolling during high-traffic hours to prevent incidents and promote responsible beach enjoyment. The nipper programme, in particular, equips the next generation with confidence in the water, while sport pathways open doors to broader opportunities in New Zealand's surf lifesaving scene. As the southernmost club worldwide, Oreti stands as a testament to resilience and dedication, inviting all to contribute to its mission of safety and fun at Oreti Beach.