Does my child need to be able to swim to join?

No prior swimming skills are required; lessons take place in waist-depth water where participants can stand comfortably.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Lessons run rain or shine; they are rarely canceled and are rescheduled only if ocean conditions are unsafe.

Can my child use their own surfboard and wetsuit?

While all gear is provided, participants are welcome to bring their own. If conditions don’t suit personal equipment, club gear is available.

What supervision is provided during lessons?

Qualified instructors maintain a maximum 1:6 ratio, are first aid certified, and have surf rescue experience for safety and support.

Can children with learning or physical difficulties join?

Yes, the program specializes in accommodating a range of learning and physical needs to ensure inclusivity.

Are there opportunities to buy surf gear after the course?

Yes, participants receive a 10% discount on surfboards and wetsuits at the associated surf shop to encourage continued surfing.

Master the Waves: After-School Surfing Classes at Orewa Beach for Kids and Teens

Orewa Beach, located on New Zealand's scenic Hibiscus Coast just north of Auckland, offers an exceptional gateway to the Pacific Ocean's gentle swells and sandy shores. This vibrant coastal town is home to the After-School Surfing program, an expertly designed six-week course tailored for children and teens aged 6 to 16. Delivering an engaging, skill-focused experience, this program shapes young surfers in a welcoming, safe, and fun environment — perfect for both beginners and those already riding waves.

Orewa Beach is known for its expansive sandy stretch and consistent, manageable waves, making it an ideal training ground for developing surf skills. The crystal-clear water lap against volcanic sand that recalls the geologic vitality of the Auckland region. Participants get to explore this unique coastline with coaching that balances ocean safety, surfing technique, and confidence-building in the water.

The After-School Surf Club runs weekdays and Saturdays with multiple time slots, allowing families flexibility. Each 75-minute lesson features progressive learning, introducing a new surf skill weekly. From mastering the pop-up and paddling tactics to discerning wave selection and turns, kids receive personalized coaching in small groups that zoom in on individual progress. Their advancement is celebrated through Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum awards, encouraging perseverance and achievement.

In addition to expert guidance from instructors trained in surf rescue and first aid, all necessary gear—surfboards, wetsuits, rash vests—is provided to ensure comfort and performance during sessions. This setup means participants can focus solely on learning and making friends on the beach. Parents appreciate the program’s inclusivity, especially its experience with accommodating diverse learning and physical needs.

Beyond technique, the program fosters crucial ocean awareness and safety skills that empower kids to respect and enjoy the marine environment responsibly. The organizers also provide a 10% discount on surfboards and wetsuits through their surf shop at the end of the course, making it easier for families to nurture lasting surfing habits.

Orewa’s beach community has a laid-back charm and a deep connection to the ocean, reflected in the surf culture anchored by this club. With reliable conditions year-round and scenic views of Rangitoto Island in the distance, the beach is a hotspot not just for surfing but for family outings and nature observation.

Whether you’re visiting Auckland or living nearby, enrolling your child in the After-School Surfing program at Orewa Beach offers a combination of skill development, ocean stewardship, and joyful social interaction – an unbeatable introduction to the world of surfing on New Zealand’s North Island.