Author Archives: SPS Webmaster

MANGAMAUNU – NZTA and KiwiRail agree not to proceed with cycle way consents around Mangamaunu Point, which were granted unlawfully and without public input, and which would have significantly impacted the Mangamaunu surf break

SURFERS MAKE A STAND FOR MANGAMAUNU
SPS has filed for judicial review proceedings challenging the decisions by the Kaikoura District Council and the Canterbury Regional Council to grant resource consents to build the cycle way and other amenities in Mangamaunu, using a truncated RMA process under an Order in Council (OIC) under the Hurunui/Kaikoura Earthquakes Emergency Relief and Recovery Acts 2016 (emergency legislation).

Democracy and the right of of legal challenge has been suspended under emergency earthquake legislation in order to build a cycle way around Mangamaunu point which will impact on this Nationally significant surf break. PLEASE EMAIL THE MINISTERS with this template (email addresses included).
SPS are engaging with the legal fraternity to seek ways of calling out this decision through the courts as this is a clear misuse of the emergency earthquake legislation, intended purely to re establish the road and rail network.

Media Release: Consents To Destroy Mangamaunu Surf Break Granted.
A cycle way is to be built on the foreshore along with a new car park with preference by KDC & Ecan over a nationally significant surf break, denying the democratic rights of the community to be involved in any new development of the pristine north coast of Kaikoura.

At a council meeting held on the 28th March 2018, packed with local surfers and supporters who were against the destruction of the Mangamaunu surf break, SPS representatives asked for council to act with integrity in their decision making. Unfortunately the call went unheeded by KDC with the consents approved a day later without any protection to the Mangamaunu surf break or the bay.
The Surfbreak Protection Society has responded by setting up a Givealittle page to raise funds for a legal challenge.

NCTIR are bulldozing through a consent that will build a cycleway around the pointbreak at Mangamaunu within the foreshore and coastal hazard zone, irreparably damagng the surfbreak and ruining the pristine nature of this protected bay. The consent is being pushed through under the earthquake emergency legislation that has the purpose to open the road and for restoration work. Clearly the road is already open and building a new cycleway is not restoration of any kind but a poorly thought out development that will cause damage to an area with five national outstanding features. This is an inappropriate use of the emergency legislation.

The Surfbreak Protection Society is relieved to withdraw our appeal opposing the Lyttelton Port Company’s consent application for disposal of Dredge material some four Kilometers offshore from Taylors Mistake and Christchurch surf breaks at Sumner and further North towards New Brighton. We now have monitoring in place to ensure any adverse effects from the disposal can be adequately addressed should adverse effects occur.

SPS has written to Waikato Regional Council, the Minister of Conservation and other parties alerting the agencies to the instability of the Whangamata bar and estuary caused by the near monthly dredging of the Moana anu anu Confluence in order to provide all tide access to the marina built in 2008 – 2010.

The Whangamata Bar is listed in schedule one of the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement, where all adverse effects on the 17 listed surf breaks must be avoided.

SPS assert that it is not appropriate for Waikato Regional Council to invoke plausible deniability while at the same time discouraging any further science to better understand the coastal processes of the Whangamata estuary and world famous surf break on the ebb tide delta.

The Whangamata marina society originally misled the Crown at the Environment Court as to the amounts required to be dredged, and when the society were granted the construction consents, the society then gained new non notified consents from WRC for amounts 3 times greater than was originally accepted by the Environment Court.

In 2012 SPS leveraged a dredging consent review from WRC due to the poor surfing wave quality on the bar soon after every dredge, The Bar never gets a chance to repair itself, as with every lunar cycle, a new dredge on the spring tide takes place.

Incredibly, during the consent review WRC turned around and granted the marina society a new consent for a Lift and Drift method without accurate measure of what has been dredged, and without any monitoring conditions what so ever on the Whangamata Bar.

Since 2013 SPS has conducted its own monitoring of the Whangamata ebb tide delta, and over the five years since the flawed WRC consent review, SPS have found a clear linkage between dredging events and the significant adverse effects on surf quality on the Whangamata Bar.

With this letter WRC are now on notice to conduct their statutory obligations under the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement 2010.

WRC and its officers, the Thames Coromandel District Council, and the Whangamata Marina society all have a duty under section 17 of the RMA. Every person has a duty to avoid, remedy, or mitigate any adverse effect on the environment arising from an activity carried on by, or on behalf of the person…

Our letter has put the above parties on notice and SPS expect that Policy 16 of the NZCPS will be upheld.

The Surfbreak Protection Society (SPS) has lodged an appeal against the Lyttelton Port of Christchurch Ltd (LPC ) capital dredging consents that would see up to 18 million cubic meters of sediment dredged from the shipping channel and placed in the swell corridors of Christchurch City’s surf breaks Taylors Mistake, Sumner Bar, Sumner and New Brighton, and cumulatively some 900,000 cubic meters of maintenance dredgings annually.

Hello members, supporters and friends.

The Surfbreak Protection Society 2017 AGM has been called for Sunday 4th of September, and nominations for committee are now open. read more for details..

Press release: Another contaminated storm water overflow event at Lyall Bay, and Wellington City Council’s advice is:

“Generally speaking 48 hours after heavy rainfall it’s usually wise to avoid swimming in the harbour or swimming around the south coast.”

This is simply not good enough! In 2010 Wellington City Council gave us a promise that they prioritise works to resolve this unpleasant situation for beach goers. It seams that now the priority is a generous donation of more than $90 million to Infratil shareholders to build an airport extension that will do further harm to Lyall Bay’s surfbreaks. SPS are requesting Greater Wellington Regional Council review the consents granted in 2011 to allow WCC to continue discharges for another ten years in light of the consents are in breach of the New Zealand Coastal policy Statement 2010 in regard to the use and enjoyment of surf breaks

The Surfbreak Protection Society is urging other Wellington surfers who made submissions on the proposed extension to file their form under section 274 stating they would like to appear in the Environment Court and speak to their submissions. If you have not made a submission, SPS will consider tabling a witnessed affidavit to the Court on your behalf..

SPS has put three questions to the 40 mayoral and council candidates regarding WIAL’s all out assault on the Corner surf break and whether or not they support WIAL seeking the Corner’s removal for the sake of their seawall and extension. The questions we put were:

1. WIAL are seeking to remove the Corner surf break from the proposed Natural Resources Plan so they can build a new seawall and promenade along Moa Point Rd. WIAL will need the support of WCC. If elected, will you support the removal of the Corner surf break for this project?

2.Do you think it for the public good that Lyall Bay should suffer degraded surfing conditions, the demise of the Corner and Airport Rights surf breaks, for the sake of an airport extension and new promenade?

3. Do you think WIAL should be obligated to rectify the damage to the Corner’s surfing wave quality, that they have caused over the last six to fifteen years?

So far we have had 13 candidates respond

If candidates do not respond by Sunday 1st of October SPS will take that as a “no comment”

DUDE! WHERES MY SURF BREAK?
– WIAL Telling Porkies –
A significant number of surfers are confused as to what WIAL is offering as mitigation to offset the impacts on Lyall Bay’s surf breaks,
Some surfers even think that WIAL will avoid any adverse effects on the Corner! Nothing could be further from the truth.

WIAL are embarking on a campaign to eliminate the the Corner surf break conclusively from any protection that the GWRC Proposed Natural Resources Plan offers, WIAL thinks this level of protection is unwarranted, and adverse effects on Lyall Bay’s surf breaks should only be managed as an amenity value, essentially removing any recognition of surf breaks as a finite resource from the discussion .

WIAL are even seeking to remove any controls over limiting the airport company’s ability to modify the Moa Point Rd Seawall, removing rules that would take into consideration impacts from seawall construction on our Corner surf break, as the airport company plans to build a new replacement seawall along Moa Point Rd.

WIAL simply want the Corner gone, and the Surfbreak Protection Society is the thin blue line that remains in their way.

Revelations emerged last week that Wellington International Airport Ltd (WIAL) has been responsible for alterations to the Moa Point Rd sea wall in Lyall Bay, Wellington. Michael Gunson, Research Officer at Surfbreak Protection Society (SPS) and long-time Wellington surfer, is asking why has the airport been in charge of developing the Moa Point Road sea wall, and not the Wellington City Council? The incremental creep of the sea wall has had a negative impact on Wellington’s premier Lyall Bay Corner surf break, WIAL are also applying for consents to build a 3 meter wide promenade the length of Moa Point Rd, as well as seeking the “Corner surf break’s deletion, from a GWRC schedule of regionally significant surf breaks.

The Corner surf break will be gone by Lunchtime, should the airport consent applications be successful. Points for your submission on the Proposed Wellington airport extension and Submerged Wave Focussing Structure can be found here as well as links to fill in your submission online. Wellington surfers must object to any further development of Moa Point Road Sea Wall to facilitate an extended promenade for cycling and walking, and overall sub standard mitigation for surfing that will not work

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wgtn Airport Extension Project “A Leap Of Faith” For Lyall Bay’s Surfers
The Surfbreak Protection Society (SPS) is very concerned that Wellington International Airport Ltd is attempting to railroad through its runway extension by way of the Environment Court, as it has not yet made its arguments through articulated science-based debate.
In March, SPS questioned the sincerity of WIAL’s proposed mitigation of a swell focusing reef, while at the same time, the airport company were seeking the deletion of policies that protect surf breaks, by way of WIAL’s submission to the Greater Wellington Regional Councils Proposed Natural Resources Plan (PNRP).

WIAL is seeking the removal of Lyall Bay’s Corner surf break from the Greater Wellington Regional Council’s proposed schedule of protected surf breaks in its submission to The Proposed Natural Resources Plan (PNRP).
Not only that, WIAL are seeking deletion of the specific policy (Policy P51) that directs councils and developers to protect all of the Wellington Regional surf breaks as listed in Schedule K Significant Surf Breaks.

This month-
Tauranga – Mount: Dredging Versus Natural Processes, What’s Going On?
SPS are seeking to engage Port Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council for a robust monitoring system to separate natural processes from those of the Port as to protect and enhance the surfbreaks of the Mount and Matakana

The Surfbreak Protection Society’s 2015 Annual General Meeting is to be held at De Post Belgian Beer Café , 466 Mt Eden Road, Mt Eden, Auckland on the 19th of September please ensure your menmbership is up to date, and please invite your friends to join!

A Roundup Of Surfbreak Protection Issues in May. A special thanks this month to Marie Ockleford who has taken the time to redesign our newsletter template, much appreciated. Northland Northland Regional Council (NRC) is pushing ahead with plans to REDUCE protection for …

A monthly update on what has been crossing our desk, – Wellington Airport – Will WIAL employ the appropriate scientific methods to negate impacts on Lyall Bay’s Surfbreaks?
Lyall Bay corner Car park – is it time to rip up this unwanted intrusion into our shoreline – share your thoughts.
Northland Regional Coastal plan- identification of the regions surfbreaks – narrowed down to only ten?

WELLINGTON TO COMMEMORATE THE DUKE THIS SATURDAY 21 MARCH!
With the remnants of Cyclone Pam spinning on down past the Chatham’s, we have a good setup for swell this Saturday to mark one hundred years of Duke Kahanamoku demonstrating his surfing skills to a crowd of thousands at Lyall Bay as a guest of Lyall Bay SLSC in 1915.

Runsheet:

9:30 am = Opening ceremony at the Corner – Eastern end of the beach
10:00 am = Comp starts with heats throughout the day. Prizes awarded for craziest board, coolest costume, most entertaining ride, biggest crowd pleaser
10:45-12:15 pm = Grommets/learn to surf
12:30 pm = Group photo (all surfers lined up with boards behind like back in the day)
1:30 pm = Paddle race (any board but no paddles)
6 pm = Prizegiving
7 pm = Party (featuring live music)

On the 1st of March Dunedin celebrated Duke Kahanamoku visiting “our place” 100 years ago.
It is reported that while the Duke visited Dunedin for a swimming exhibition he visited St Clair Beach and ripped the back off a chair and used it as a body surfing aid.

RAGLAN : A facebook page has been set up based on lies and misleading information regarding a house to be built near indicators for the rightful Tangata whenua.

SPS STRONGLY RECOMMENDS YOU DO NOT LIKE THAT PAGE.

Be aware that when you make your way to indicators you are actually trespassing across Unextinguised Maori title land, you make your way to Indicators with the tolerance of the indigenous people. There is no right of public access.

If ignorant, abusive, and threatening comments aimed at the Tangata whenua continue (by mostly pakeha surfers) on that page, then the Surfbreak Protection Society will be unable to predict the future access to Indicators.

It is in your hands, be respectful or lose it, simple.

If you have previously liked that page, and regret your action, you can unlike a page, just follow the instructions on this youtube video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4F0crERt2g4

Aloha! As usual a lot of work goes on behind the scenes here at SPS.   SPS has been working closely with the New Brighton Pier and Foreshore Society in Christchurch, South Coast Boardriders, in Dunedin, Lyall Bay SLSC and …

Celebrations are to be held in New Brighton Christchurch, St Clair Beach Dunedin, Lyall Bay Wellington, and Fitzroy Beach New Plymouth to commemorate 100 years since Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku first demonstrated his swimming and surfing prowess at public events held in Dunedin Christchurch Wellington and Auckland.
Saturday the 28th of February will see a full schedule of events, including a Whakatau and karikia to welcome the Dukes whanau and other honoured guests including the Mayor Lianne Dalziel – The event includes unveiling a plaque of the Duke.

Monthly Update January 2015 -A short round up of whats happening with Surfbreak Protection

Celebrations are to be held in New Brighton Christchurch, and Lyall Bay Wellington, to commemorate 100 years since the father of modern surfing first demonstrated the sport of kings at public events at both locations.
In ChCh the New Brighton Pier and Foreshore Society are unveiling a centennial memorial that will consist of a replica surfboard and bronze plaque. The society has invited Sandy Hall who is the Duke’s official biographer – Earl Pa Mai Tenn who represents the Duke’s family and Master Hawaiian Ukulele and Hula teacher Edwina Noelani Mahoe, will also be present for the celebration on the 28th of February.
The Wellington Boardriders Club will be running a commemorative day on Sat 21 March at Lyall Bay, Instead of being a standard surf comp it will be a fun filled day with spot prizes and awards for best Hawaiian costume, vintage costume, vintage board, best performance, best wave, oldest and youngest surfers.

Media Release: The Wellington Boardriders Club (WBC ) and the Surfbreak Protection Society (SPS) are both concerned about the loss of “Airport Rights,” a heavy wave at the end of the airport runway that will disappear if the airport extension goes ahead. – Both organisations find it a bit ironic that they are facing a submission process to protect our surfing heritage exactly 100 years since the father of modern surfing the legendary Duke Kahanamoku first surfed Lyall Bay.

WGTN Airport – Where To For Lyall Bay From Here? –
One Hundred years after Duke Kahanamoko popularized surfing with a demonstration at Lyall Bay, a proposed 300 meter airport extension to the south has the potential to degrade surfing wave quality for the corner surfbreak – and perhaps even the rest of the bay. the existing reclamation already holds a major influence over Lyall Bay’s swell corridor, currents, sediment pathways, and surfbreaks.

Will the proposed 300 meter extension have a negative impact on surfing in Lyall Bay?..

The MV Lake Triview ran aground on the Waiwhakaiho Reef at approximately 2115 hours (9.15 pm) on 24th May 2014, becoming stuck fast on the reef, some 930 metres more or less north-west of the nationally significant surfbreak – Waiwhakaiho . The vessel’s Captain ordered the engines to full ahead and after approximately five minutes, the ship slowly eased off the reef. When the Ship limped into Port Taranaki, divers inspected the hull and found 24 breeches, some large enough for them to swim into.With 400 tonnes of oil on board and 8200 tonnes of soy meal as its cargo the event had the potential to significantly eclipse the Rena grounding. The Cargo itself would have led to a systemic near shore disaster unparalleled in NZ maritime history

Wastewater discharges into Whangamata’s estuaries are nothing new, and it’s because of continual pressure from the likes of Paul Shanks, Clean Water Whangamata and other locals since 1997 that TCDC finally relented and upgraded the plant in 2009… But the toxic algae blooms remain, what’s more they give the appearance of managed events on Spring tides – either side of a holiday weekend but not during – and linked to rain events. Why are these blooms happening and why are both TCDC and WRC so coy and unwilling to investigate?

As of next month our monthly updates will resume on the 15th of every month, and we will be keeping you briefed on a number of issues that go to the core of Surfbreak Protection in New Zealand. SPS plan to cement the preservation of surfbreaks even further, we will release our strategy early in the new year, so stay logged in to our monthly updates and make sure your mates are too by signing up at the bottom of our homepage. – Whats coming up…

It has been nearly a year since SPS entered into Environment Court mediation to protect Aramoana and Whareakeake (murderers ) from dumping of dredge deposits by Port Otago Ltd (POL), and with the mutually agreed to adaptive management plan introduced, local surfers are reporting better than ever surfing wave quality!

SPS are optimistic that Napier City Council’s decision to put its consent application on hold while it reconsiders the project, will ultimately lead to the council dropping the idea of the breakwater option on City Reef for coastal property protection.

SPS’s 2014 Annual General meeting to be held at the New Plymouth Surf Riders Club Inc. Clubrooms at Fitzroy Seaside Park, Fitzroy Beach on the 8th of October between 6pm and 7:30

Surfbreak wishes to congratulate all the people and organisations that have opposed and protested Trans-Tasman Resources’ application for seabed mining, that was turned down by the Environmental Protection Agency last week. In particular Kiwis Against Seabed Mining has been a major player in keeping the issue of seabed mining a current one, mobilising communities and countering with strong legal arguments.

This is a good example that, as a collective, standing up for what you believe in can have positive results!

Info here: KASM in the news

The Hauraki Gulf, known by many as Tikapa Moana and by others as Te Moananui ā Toi, is rightly recognised as a national taonga. Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari is a partnership involving mana whenua, Auckland Council, Waikato Regional Council, the Department of Conservation, Ministry of Primary Industries and Hauraki Gulf Forum. The collaborative process of developing and drafting the Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari plan is being managed by a Stakeholder Working Group, appointed to the role in December 2013. Sea Change are seeking your views on how you interact with the Gulf, your experiences with it, and what you want for the Gulf going forward

There is real concern from individuals and groups like the Coromandel Watchdog that the TCDC proposed District plan will weaken controls over mining , the term Coastal Zone has been replaced with the term coastal environment without imposing rules around mining in and around the coastal zone, leaving our coastal areas vulnerable to underground and surface mining.

–PRESS RELEASE–
New planning research outlines approaches to the sustainable management of surf breaks in New Zealand
New Zealand was the first country in the world to adopt surf break protection within its resource management policy framework. This came as a result of a groundswell from the grass roots surfing community backed by an improved knowledge and understanding of surf break environments that had been developing internationally in the area of coastal science.

A win – win for Aramoana and Whareakeake surfbreaks
A comprehensive monitoring plan has been agreed to by all parties with the assistance of Environment Court mediation in Dunedin last week. Port Otago Ltd and Otago Regional Council agreed in principle with SPS scientists and legal team that adverse effects on the surfbreaks at Aramoana and Whareakeake must be avoided with regard to deposition of dredge spoil.

A baseline study regime for the first year with greatly reduced amounts, plus inclusion of SPS and South Coast Boardriders club observers on the monitoring committee are among the agreed terms of reference. A comprehensive camera system is already in place and it is expected the baseline study will identify possible trigger points for any adverse effects on the surfbreaks.

Trans-Tasman Resources Limited, (TTR) have applied for consents to disturb 50 million tonnes of marine sands to extract 5 million tonnes of iron ore per year, if granted, these permits often apply for a term of 35 -40 years.

Make your submission via the KASM website (http://kasm.org.nz/submission/).

It should be noted that TTR acknowledges that all living organisms will be destroyed during the extraction process. The applicant is relying on recolonisation of the area only and leaves the damage to nature to mitigate.

The Surfbreak Protection Society has appealed the Otago Regional Council Hearing decision to the Environment Court regarding the deposition of dredge spoil in the swell corridors of the Nationally significant surfbreaks of Aramoana and Murderers ( Whareakake) …

Only two days left to let our Government know how much we care about our Maui Dolphin, Please sign the auto submission form provided by Forest and Bird on the link provided…http://www.forestandbird.org.nz/node/108093

Napier City Council has applied for consents to build a breakwater on to the main ridge of the towns Rangatira Reef, the project will destroy the inner learners break as well as have adverse effects on the right and left hand breaks, read on and download a submission form

2013 Membership Drive -With the prospect of going to the Environment Court to protect our Southern surfbreaks , your membership is needed now more than ever before. SPS will need to apply to the Ministery of the Environment for ELA funding, which takes into account our membership numbers

Otago Decision extended!. After a spirited and articulated presentation from submitter s such as Nic Reeves, Rod Rust, and The Surfbreak Protection Society experts David Storck, Jose Cabo of eCoast Ltd on behalf of Dr Shaw Mead, The Hearing panel have extended their decision date out to 19th of July

The Government has recently announced plans to allow deep sea drilling off the West Coast of Auckland, so we’re ramping up the next phase of our campaign.

Just imagine an oil spill washing up on our iconic West Coast beaches like Piha.

THE SURFBREAK PROTECTION SOCIETY, AS PART OF THE GLOBAL COALITION OF WAVE PROTECTION NGOS, IS JOINING SAS IN CALLING FOR 100,000 SIGNATURES TO PROTECT SURFING WAVES

An Otago Regional Council Hearing will begin on May the 6th for the continued depositing of dredge material at two sites, one at Aramoana Beach, the other at Heywards Point in the swell corridors of Aramoana and karitane and Muderers surfbreaks. SPS are concerned that DoC is taking a neutral stance on the consent application while effects are uncertain

KASM and SPS have jointly released a press statement regarding The Government proposed amendments to the Crown Minerals (Permitting and Crown Land) Bill.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand are gathering information on how many people surfers actually save in a year, here is your chance to contribute to this study

Over the last 5 years, Surfbreak Protection Society (SPS) has worked to ensure changes in NZ Coastal Policies protect our iconic surfbreaks across NZ. The challenge ahead is to ensure that the protection status is monitored – give us a helping hand.

Surfbreak Protection are holding their 2013 AGM at 7pm on Thursday 18 April 2013 at the Grey Lynn Community Centre, Auckland. Click through to find out more information and to printout a copy of the Agenda and Committee Nomination form.

The Whangamata Bar Association have teamed up with onebigvoice (www.onebigvoice.com) to lobby the Waikato Regional Council to properly monitor the Whangamata Bar, please sign the petition.

Update on Whangamata Bar – The marina owners are in breach of the Waikato Coastal Plan and its existing dredging consent conditions.

Swell Corridors – some fantastic work has been done as part of the Waikato Regional and Auckland Council Coastal Policy reviews (the Regional Coastal Policy Statements) on the swell corridors – check the interactive map link.

The Reef Journal dedicated to Prof. Lee Harris from Florida, USA, and Matt Skellern from the Bay of Plenty, NZ (and ex-Surfbreak Protection committee member) who made significant contributions to coastal engineering and planning, respectively, particularly with respect to the development of MPR’s and the protection of natural surfing breaks.

Taranaki Region activity update – sewage and water quality

Evidence of how much sand is displaced by sea bed mining already on the NI West Coast.

Te Arai beach natural beauty destroyed forever – what a tragedy that the Auckland Council elected councilors did not stand up and fight against this development.

Surfbreak Protection have been trying to engage with Waikato Regional Council (WRC) since 2007 (before construction of the marina) as to what science needs to be employed to effectively monitor the wave quality on the Whanga Bar – a detailed report has been published on the issue.

The current Surfing NZ strategy and mandate is very silent of aspects of surfing and surfbreak protection, they are neutral on the environment and reactive on any role the organisation could (or should) take in helping to protect our beaches and surfbreaks – this is you chance to comment and give feedback.

Seabed mining affects surf breaks, coastal land forms and other marine life. Consents have been issued for huge amounts of seabed mineral prospecting and extraction on our West Coast.

The entire west coast of the North Island from Wanganui to Cape Reinga to 12 miles from shore is under either a prospecting or exploration permit for mineral mining.

The Gisborne District Council is reviewing the Wainui Beach Management Strategy – there’s a public meeting on Wednesday 22 Aug 2012 at 6pm at the Wainui Surf Club, Gisborne

At the recent Surfbreak Protection Society AGM (held on 24 June 2012), changes to update the Constitution were accepted and passed.

Surfbreak Protection Society AGM Minutes available to members on the website

Surfbreak Protection AGM 2012 – A big thanks to all members / supporters who turned up and contributed to make it a successful meeting. The Executive and Committee elected were:

Aaron Edwards is currently doing his Masters on Surfbreak Management and is conducting a survey of surf break users in the Auckland and Otago regions as part of his research project at the University of Otago. Click through to complete the survey…….

Surfbreak Protection are holding their 2012 Annual General Meeting on Sunday 24 June 2012 at 1.00pm in the Grey Lynn Community Centre in Auckland.

Congratulations to Barbara Donaldson of Porirua who won the Patrick Bonner painting raffle which was drawn on 31 May. 2012.

Waikato Regional Council says it is working with Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC) and developers over a consented project to build a marina at Tairua as there are suggestions that 34,700 cubic metres of harbour dredgings will be “dumped” on beaches in contravention of resource consents.

Surfbreak Protection is a recipient of funding from 1% for the Planet and we like them believe in giving back to our communities and stakeholders. Watch this video to find out why and what this means.

Surfbreak Protection Society have released a short profile video, explaining who they are what they stand for – NEW ZEALAND NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT

A short two minute film from KASM (Kiwis Against Seabed Mining), highlighting the concerns of local kiwis against sand mining our coast

REQUIESCAT Matt Skellern 1981-2012
It is with great sadness we record the passing of friend and colleague, Surfbreak committee member Matt Skellern, who died on 7 May, aged 30.

Consensus that Whanga Bar has deteriorated – “The Bar” was one of the top three sandbar surfbreaks internationally and it was important for the New Zealand surfing scene that it is returned to that position.

4th World Surfing Reserve announced – The heralded Santa Cruz surf zone joins only three other sites to claim such status – Malibu in California, Ericeira in Portugal, and Manly Beach in Australia..

Whangamata surfers will hold a panel discussion meeting on 6th May 2012 to identify what is affecting the Bar and to examine new data on the sandbar.

Auckland Council has just issued the results of the Surfbreak Survey undertaken in early 2012.

Fund Raising Raffle, original Oil Painting by Patrick Bonner – NZ$20 for a book of 10 tickets, drawn 27th May 2012 – BUY TICKETS NOW

JOIN SURFBREAK PROTECTION – The fully paidup membership for 2012/13 is $12 per person – this gives you voting rights, representation and a voice on the Society, regular information through our monthly email newsletter and login access to our submission documents and reference material.

Aramoana, Dunedin, New Zealand, is a world class surf break now under threat from continued dumping of dredged spoil in its’ swell corridor from the maintenance dredging and spoil for the proposed deepening of the Otago Harbour – WATCH THE PROTEST PADDLE OUT VIDEO

International World Water Day (22 March 2012) has been in existence since 1993. It was created with the help of the UN General Assembly in an effort to shine a light on the importance of freshwater.

Bells Beach is under serious threat from negative commercial impacts and development.

Professional surfer and environmentalist Dave Rastovich worries that the world class waves at Raglan are being threatened by proposed iron ore seabed mining in New Zealand’s coastal waters.

Wayne Walker, chairman of the Auckland Council’s Environment and Sustainability Forum, says the next step will be a comprehensive study of Auckland’s waves.
“We had submissions to the Auckland Plan about lack of mention of surf breaks and that’s been taken on board.”

Raglan rallies to say no to seabed mining off the west coast. They were joined by pro-surfer and representative of Surfers for Cetaceans Dave Rastovitch.

Manly Beach has been formally named the Manly-Freshwater World Surfing Reserve, the first such World Surfing Reserve in Australia – and the third of its type in the world

Surfbreak protection has had discussions with Council and we are hopeful that the submissions made, the ARC work, plus more recent analysis (such as the online surfbreak survey being run in Feb 2012 by the Council) will enable Auckland surfbreaks to be included in the Auckland Unitary Plan.

We really value the support from our Members – renew or join the Surfbreak Protection Sociey as a fully paidup supporting member and to make a small donation to our cause.

In the UK, our cousins Surfers Against Sewerage (SAS) have been running strong campaigns to keep the coastline pristine and to protect surfbreaks.

Much clearing of trees going on at Te Arai, in the forest where the proposed development is being processed, looks like the developer is not waiting for consent.

There has been recent clearing in the forest at Te Arai where the developer has proposed for the housing.

Surfers will have a greater say on protecting the Gold Coast’s iconic southern breaks with the declaration today of the coastal stretch from Burleigh to Snapper as a National Surf Reserve.

Coastal Recreation Conference showcases new and exciting developments.

National Seaweek INVITE March 2012 One Ocean, Too Much To Love – Turning the Tide! Monday 5th March 2012, 7pm Seaweek 2012 is being sponsored by ASB Community Trust, Department of Conservation, Ministry of Fisheries, NZ Marine Studies Centre, Auckland …

Waikato Regional Council’s catchment services committee has backed a legal appeal against a hearing committee’s decision restricting the amount of mangroves that can be cleared at Whangamata to 16 hectares of new removal and 6.5 hectares of tidy up work. …

Just heard from Te Arai Preservation that Auckland Council received 2250 submissions on the Plan change application notification. AWESOME!

Auckland Council are currently undertaking work around Auckland surf breaks to feed into the Auckland Unitary Plan (statutory document which will combine the previous Auckland district plans and regional plans). This is likely to result in specific policy around protection …

19 Feb 09 It’s an awesome new look and easy to navigate. Check out our campaigns, look at surf pics and contact us on anything you want. Join us if you’re not already a member. There is no question that …

Surfbreak Protection Society has put a submission into the Waikato Regional Council Navigation and Safety Bylaws. The Navigation and Safety Bylaws look at all the navigable waterways in the Waikato Region. Within this region there are two formal surf zones …

17 Sep 11 The Surfbreak Protection Society has made a submission to the Ports of Otago. The submission is extensive, ( 9.7 mb ) and has taken a great deal of volunteer hours to construct so it’s a professional and …

19 Apr 09 Concerned about future water safety at Whangamata, Surfbreak spoke to their submission at the recent Waikato Regional Council Safety and Navigational Bylaws hearings, held in Hamilton on 31st March 2009. The WRC review committee took theSurfbreak submission as …

20 Sep 11 Join us! Paddle outs are planned for October at significant surfbreaks around the country in support of the Aramoana/Murderers campaign that is now underway. The date set for the Paddle Out at Aramoana and other breaks around …

20 Sep 11 Submissions on the BOP Regional Plan were heard this week. Surfer support was extensive leaving the council with a clear message of the importance surfing has to a large part of the region’s communities. See the sick …

19 Sep 11 Take a first step in the fight to save Te Arai as we love it (see attachment on this item), a letter written by one of our committee to Len Brown, Auckland Mayor. We encourage everyone to …

17 Sep 11 Next week Surfbreak committee member and Coastal Planner Matt Skellern is leading a group of about 40 University of Auckland students to Raglan to show them the Whaingaroa catchment and the surf breaks. Surbreak Protection Society is …

05 Sep 11 The Surfbreak Protection Society AGM is being held in New Plymouth later this month. When: 1.30pm, Saturday 24th September. Where: New Plymouth Surfrider’s Club, New Plymouth, Taranaki. The notice and agenda are attached. Documents AGM 2011 notice

04 Sep 11 The Orewa Beach Reef Charitable Trust has applied for resource consent to construct an offshore reef system at Orewa Beach, Hibiscus Coast. The application has been publicly notified. Closing date for submissions is 27 September 2011.For more …

30 Aug 11 Wellington surfers and beach goers will soon have an informed choice if they wish to enter the water after a waste water overflow event. The new discharge consents give a timeframe of 10 years to resolve the …

30 Aug 11 Port Otago wants to dump increased volumes of spoil from harbour entrance dredging at sites such as Aramoana and near Murdering Bay. Hit the link below to support our petition to preserve these nationally significant surfbreaks. This …

14 Apr 11 The hearing got underway today to hear the submissions on Port Otago’s application to increase dredging volumes. The surfing community is presenting at the hearings to protect Aramoana Spit which we believe is at serious risk if …

24 May 11 A workshop has been organised on surf breaks at Auckland Uni at the end of May that will involve a good gathering of the experts to discuss how to implement the NZCPS. It is being held alongside …

30 May 11 In the Auckland region over the last few weeks there has been media interest in the growing ground swell of awareness towards preserving our impressive surfing coast. Surfbreaks are at the centre of many of our coastal …

10 Jul 11 Assisted by the first Surfbreak Protection Society grant, coastal scientist and passionate surfer Bailey Peryman has produced a superb, ground breaking report on surfing and the impact of surfing in the Bay of Plenty region of New …

The Shanks name is synonymous with New Zealand surfing. Paul hails from Whangamata where he has been a leader in the fight to save the famous Whanga Bar as a result of the new Marina being built. Started surfing early …

The developers of a marina at Whangamata have got their numbers wrong. The marina is still being built and they have announced figures supplied and signed off by the Waikato Regional Council and the Thames District Coromandel District Council as …

Gisborne’s Wainui beach residents have formed a community organisation to look after the beach and surrounding land. A special focus is on water quality of the local surf breaks. They have had to become involved in Council processes as part …

Taranaki Regional Council protects Surfbreaks. On February 24th 2009 the Taranaki Regional Council voted to formalise the 2009 Taranaki Regional Plan which gives protection to 83 surfbreaks from “Inappropriate development”, as well as protecting the water quality of surfbreaks and …

The Te Arai hearings at Orewa for the Rodney District Plan change began on Monday 2nd March 2009 with the applicants getting the week to present their case. Surfbreak presented it’s evidence on Wednesday afternoon of week 2 among others …

  Following the formal passing of the Taranaki regional plan on February 24th 2008 which granted protection [ which included swell corridors] from inappropriate development, the TRC has commenced work on updating the TARANAKI COASTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT. This involves creating …

The marina at Whangamata has been under construction for 7 months. The marina entrance is now being built with surfers questioning the integrity of the “weir”. © Grant McIntosh It seems is that Heb contractors are not following a consistent construction …

David Storck, Piha surfer and Surfbreak Protection committee member has won the Hyundai Pro Longboard Over 50’s title for 2009. Congratulations David! © Al Ashworth, Slide Magazine With a 2nd at the final event at Port Waikato this weekend David has …

Surfbreak Protection has some concerns about, and is opposed to aspects of the Resource Management Amendment (simplifying & streamlining) Bill. Surfbreak does also support some aspects of the Bill. In SPS’s submission many of the changes suggested to be made …

The Southland Regional Council held hearings for a proposed dairy farm in the Porpoise Bay, Curio Bay and Haldane Bay catchments on 1st and 2nd April 2009. The decision on whether to allow the dairy farm will be made on …

Concerned about future water safety at Whangamata, Surfbreak spoke to their submission at the recent Waikato Regional Council Safety and Navigational Bylaws hearings, held in Hamilton on 31st March 2009. The WRC review committee took the Surfbreak submission as read. …

Surfers take the freedom of surfing on our awesome coastline for granted. The revision of the Resource Management Act (RMA) has the potential to favour developer interests over the natural environment. Surfbreak Protection Society’s Paul Shanks & Dr Rosemary Segedin …

Porpoise Bay is a series of classy beach breaks. Southland Regional Council has given consent for an industrial style dairy farm to be set up for the first time in Porpoise Bay. Aspects of the consents have been appealed by …

The New Plymouth District Council has approved a policy aimed at protecting the district’s unique geodiversity, by restricting new construction that can be seen from any beach. Some corrections made to this item 12th September 2009. See separate item. In …

Rodney District Council has declined the application for a District Plan Change, that would have cleared the way for developers to damage the natural characteristics, wilderness and remote feel of the Te Arai Point and Black Swamp surfbreaks. At its …

Surfbreak Protection wishes to extend its condolences to the family and friends of Christchurch surfer and environmental campaigner Jonathan McCarthy, who died on 24th June 2009. Jonathan was a founding member of the Sumner Longboarders and a passionate environmentalist, known …

The construction bund (embankment) of the partially built Whangamata marina completely failed recently after rain on 29th June 2009. The entire construction area was flooded as a result of 110cm of rain falling in the previous 24 hours, a reasonably …

This feature documentary film has been made and released to raise awareness of the atrocious and unnecessary slaughter of Dolphins. Local Dunedin surfer Tony Denley has been campaigning hard to raise awareness of the atrocious and unnecessary slaughter of Dolphins …

Save the Waves have listed many New Zealand surfbreaks with the intention of helping to create World Surfing Reserves (WSR) across the globe. Read on for instructions on how to view these surfbreaks. Using Google Earth®, Save the Waves has …

The inevitable decision by the developers to appeal the Rodney District Council’s plan change decision has been confirmed. Te Arai Point is a wilderness that is rarely found near Auckland these days. The Rodney District Council’s decision to decline an …

Surfbreak Protection Society’s AGM is to be held in New Plymouth on Saturday 26th September 2009. Everyone is welcome, so come to our AGM and make an excuse for a surf highway 45 roadie at the same time. Click here …

Recently we reported New Plymouth District Council’s (what we thought were) decisions on very innovative coastal development restrictions. Some corrections to this earlier news item follow New Plymouth District Council contacted us with the following comments. Their main concerns were: …

Manawatu coastal environment – have your say – deadline looming. Coastal environments, such as dunes and estuaries, are recognised as nationally significant eco-systems in New Zealand. Conservation programmes and community projects that help to conserve these areas are becoming more …

The appeals against the new dairy farm operation have been withdrawn. The potential for substantially poluted waterways, marine habitats and ecosystems at Porpoise Bay and Waikawa inlet remains a distinct possibility. About a week ago the appeals to the Environment …

With Paige Hareb’s success on the world stage a once in a lifetime opportunity presented itself to Taranaki, a WCT event at home. Womens surfing has blossomed over recent years and the overwhelming majority of New Zealand’s women surfers are …

We will be present at the World Juniors in Piha from 21st to 28th January and we have a brand new T-shirt range we will be promoting and selling at the event for only $25 each. Our theme is “Keeping …

In 2007 the Ministry of Conservation embarked on the Review of the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement (NZCPS). The original NZCPS was introduced in 1994 and the RMA (Resource Management Act) required that a review be put out for public …

The Maya Bar 20 Blair St, Wellington Proudly Presents… The Fool’s Paradise Party!!! Saturday 20th March, Starts at 5 PM through to 6 AM Sunday Come down and share a toast to the illusion of Clean Green New Zealand, and …

2-3 June 2010 Aotea Centre, The Edge, Auckland, New Zealand EDS’s national conference Reform in Paradise II will build on the success of last year’s event and examine key elements of the government’s environmental reform agenda. The conference will seek …

For the last 20 – 30 years the Waitara community, including surfers has been calling for a Sewage pipeline to avoid (treated) effluent from poluting the coastal area. This issue has reached another head with the latest Taranaki Regional Council …

In February Surfbreak Protection wrote to the Minister of Conservation asking why it took so long for the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement Board of Inquiry report to be released, and requesting a copy of the report. The request was …

There are more threats to the surf breaks of Taranaki than are immediately obvious. Just because they appear in the media once they do not go away. Developers are continually beavering away on their plans to exploit the marine environment …

See the attached guide for what to do if you come across a whale stranding and want to help save these beautiful creatures. Click here.

Today is International Surfing Day for 2010. Please take a minute to read the following message from ISA President Fernando Aguerre. It’s a great reminder for us all. Well done to all those in NZ holding events to honour this …

Monitoring raises concerns over Bar and Tidal Jet performance. Last week Whangamata Camping Association and Surfbreak Protection Society members met in Whangamata, mainly to study all the Bar surveys that have been conducted as part of a monitoring programme to …

In May we reported that the long awaited NZ Coastal Policy Statement (NZCPS) had been leaked by one of the Board of Inquiry (BOI) members Philip Woollaston. The Minister of Conservation had been sitting on the new policy, recommended by …

Recent comments by West Coast surfers near Auckland suggest that the popular Piha reform (ditch) has almost completely disappeared. The local community is working on this issue but this popular beach seems to have lost one of it’s more colourful …

As populations increase and development to sustain these populations place more demands on the natural environment, some of our national surfing treasures come under threat. One such treasure, is the world class surf break at Aramoana, also known as ‘The …

The developer has withdrawn his court appeal to reverse the Rodney decision not to allow him to develop at Te Arai Point. Our last unspoilt piece of surfing coastline near Auckland is safe for now. Surfbreak Protection Society cited its …

Volcom’s V.Co-Logical Series represents Volcom’s socially responsible movement towards sustainability. In this collection you’ll find more sustainable materials and/or less impactful production methods blended with our signature styling. Additionally 1% of every dollar you spend in this category goes to …

A lecture by Paul Shanks and Matt Skellern 26 October 2010 6pm, Venue: Design Lecture Theatre, NICAI Conference Centre, 22 Symonds St, Auckland. Paul Shanks won the Ministry for the Environment Green Ribbon in 2006, for community leadership in Whangamata. …

The little known but highly regarded Napier “City Reef” is in danger of extinction as a result of a breakwater construction plan. Some locals are taking on the district authority but need all locals to have their voice heard and …

The consent hearing for Port Otago’s Project Next Generation harbour-dredging application may be put on hold for up to six months because of the number of submissions to the application, at this stage confirmed for March 2011. Port Otago has …

All of us Hawkes Bay surfers need to seriously get our act together and start an active campaign to safeguard our break at City Reef (Napier) otherwise it will join Harding Road as yet another stuffed historical surf spot. Harding …

Annual Surfbreak Protection Grant announced. A SurfBreak Protection Grant has been announced by the SurfBreak Protection Society to provide assistance to those involved in undertaking research / education that support the objectives of the SurfBreak Protection Society in New Zealand. …

Is the Whanga Bar broken? Long term locals know it is! Unfortunately too many visitors experience the wave as better than their locals (particularly Aucklanders). This doesn’t mean it is not broken it just says heaps about the endless number …

Surfbreak Protection Society has successfully settled its Environment Court appeal on the Whangamata wastewater issue – for a second time. In 2007 Surfbreak Protection Society, jointly with Clean Water Whangamata, appealed the Whangamata Wastewater Plant upgrade proposal, on the grounds …

Raglan locals are worried by the latest threat to their iconic point breaks. Exploratory Oil drilling has come to the coast just off Raglan. A protest event took place on Saturday 13 November. Read the full story from the Raglan …

Listen to podcaast of the ‘Saving Waves’ lecture given last month by Paul Shanks and Matt Skellern. It is now available as a podcast produced by The School of Architecture and Planning, The University of Auckland. Listen to it here. …

Join Surfbreak NOW or RENEW your membership for 2011 and go in the draw for 2 tickets to the Jack Johnson concert at New Plymouth (28 Nov) or Auckland (2 Dec). 2 draws for New Plymouth and 3 for Auckland. …

With the launch of the NZCPS (New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement) and specific inclusion of 19 surfbreaks, we ask the question what does this protection mean? The Whanga Bar is a good case in point right now. See below for …

Buy raffle tickets (look for this promotional poster) at selected surf shops, from Surfbreak Protection committee members or contact us online. Tickets $2 each or 3 tickets for $5. All proceeds go to Surfbreak Protection Society to assist activities associated …

Get on to “Love your Coast” coastal clean up events coming to many regions in the next few weeks. worst epidemics. Plastic is filling our oceans fast. Vast islands of the stuff float around constantly. Marine birds and fish are …

Since 1996 this group has been involved in research on artificial surfing reefs as part of the development of New Zealand’s first artificial surfing reef at Mount Maunganui. The focus is the environmental impacts, particularly social impacts, of such reefs …

There has been an oil spill at one of the permanent floating vessels at the Maari oil field off the Taranaki coast, operator OMV says. The spill occurred on Saturday and the amount of oil leaked is believed to be …

A study is underway to find out about the Bay’s great surf breaks from locals. Two workshops have been organised in January to talk to surfers about their favourite surf breaks and what makes them important, as part of a …

People with an interest in waves have contributed to a study on what makes the Bay of Plenty’s surf breaks important. The study is being undertaken by Lincoln University planning student Bailey Peryman, with support from the Bay of Plenty …

We received an encouraging letter this week from our Ozzie cousins. The letter reads ‘On behalf of National Surfing Reserves (Australia) and World Surfing Reserves, we would like to congratulate the NZ Surf Break Protection Society on the recent provision …

The raffle winner of the Tony Ogle print has been drawn along with 2x Surfbreak T-shirt winners. The lucky winner of the Tony Ogle ‘Indicators’ print is Gary Dick of Auckland. The two T-shirt winners are P Clow of Hot …

A vessel spotted working in the North Taranaki Bight has re-ignited debate about ironsand mining. The self-propelled barge, Brandywine, has been seen during the last three weeks near the Pohokura production platform. The ship is owned by Wellington company Seaworks, …

Earlier we reported the threat to the Napier City Reef surfbreak. Read the attached letter for a full update on what’s happening there. Keep an eye out for public notification of the resource consent application and make your own submission. …

Our thoughts go out to everyone in the Christchurch and surrounding area as you deal with the horrific effects of the recent earthquake.

The recently released NZCPS legislation appears to be having a very positive effect on surfers ability to influence RPS (regional policy statement) reviews in an increasing number of regions. Long may this continue. In some early signs of policy reviews …

Recent developments have reinforced the urgent need for effective spatial planning of our coasts, lakesides and sea. EDS’s 2011 conference is an opportunity to be a part of managing the preservation and sustainability of our outstanding natural coastal resources. Coastlines: …

Submissions to the Proposed Waikato Regional Policy Statement (PWRPS) closed this week. The Waikato as a surfing region stretches from Mokau to Port Waikato in the west and covers the Coromandel in the east and has several surfbreaks of national …

Good news for surfers and other coastal users as water quality will surely improve as fencing and planting streambanks is fast becoming the norm among Taranaki farmers. By the end of December, the Taranaki Regional Council had received orders for …

The application for resource consent has been placed on hold at the request of the applicant (Napier City Council) and is with their lawyers. We do not believe it is in the interests of the wider Hawkes Bay community for …

Gisborne City Council and New Zealand Transport Authority have collaborated to build a new traffic safety barrier on the coast highway from the southern end of Makarori Beach to the top of the hill before you head towards Wainui. The …

Some locals say Whanga Bar is a goner and have given up the fight. Not us, Whanga is worth fighting for. After all it’s a 10 out of 10 (Wavetrack Guide) and legislated as a nationally significant surfbreak (NZCPS 2010). …

For the second year in a row Volcom, a major surfing brand, has made a substantial donation to Surfbreak Protection Society. Thanks Volcom, your support is gratefully received and helps heaps with the development of programmes to preserve our cherished …

Auckland Council is commencing work on their spatial plan. Make sure you have your say on surfing on the Auckland Region’s coastline. The regional plans will be crucial for surfbreak policy inclusions as there are no, recognised as significant, surfbreaks …

It looks like the uproar over the controversial barrier has paid dividends. A consultation process is planned to begin this week. Members of Gisborne City Council and New Zealand Transport Agency are said to want to talk to surfers next …

The hearing got underway today to hear the submissions on Port Otago’s application to increase dredging volumes. The surfing community is presenting at the hearings to protect Aramoana Spit which we believe is at serious risk if the application is …

The Aramoana hearings continued today in earnest. Nic Reeves of Surfbreak Protection presented our evidence to the committee including a must see video that includes some sick surfing footage (see below). Nic’s presentation was well received. A measure of her …

A workshop has been organised on surf breaks at Auckland Uni at the end of May that will involve a good gathering of the experts to discuss how to implement the NZCPS. It is being held alongside the EDS Conference …

What do Auckland Surfbreaks mean to you? The attached guide will help you to let Auckland Council know. Auckland City are calling on interested individuals and groups to let them know their thoughts on how the city should form up. …

In the Auckland region over the last few weeks there has been media interest in the growing ground swell of awareness towards preserving our impressive surfing coast. Surfbreaks are at the centre of many of our coastal treasures. Probably as …

When Monday 20th June, 7pm Where Amazon Board Shop St Georges Bay Road (just up from Garfield Street intersection) Parnell, Auckland RSVP Email jkshaw@jhug.co.nz or at our facebook page by Wednesday 16th June. Drinks and nibbles provided A great night …

Assisted by the first Surfbreak Protection Society grant, coastal scientist and passionate surfer Bailey Peryman has produced a superb, ground breaking report on surfing and the impact of surfing in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand. Bailey’s report …

On the 20th of June 2011 Surfbreak Protection Society celebrated International Surfing Day with an evening of insights in to what we do and a viewing of the best of Andy McAlpine’s classic NZ 1960’s surf film ‘Children of the …

Aramoana presentation and video goes down well at hearings

Aramoana presentation and video goes down well at hearings

19 Apr 11 Aramoana presentation and video goes down well at hearings

10 Jul 11 Assisted by the first Surfbreak Protection Society grant, coastal scientist and passionate surfer Bailey Peryman has produced a superb, ground breaking report on surfing and the impact of surfing in the Bay of Plenty region of New …

10 Jul 11 On the 20th of June 2011 Surfbreak Protection Society celebrated International Surfing Day with an evening of insights in to what we do and a viewing of the best of Andy McAlpine’s classic NZ 1960’s surf film …

12 Jun 11 When Monday 20th June, 7pm Where Amazon Board Shop St Georges Bay Road (just up from Garfield Street intersection) Parnell, Auckland RSVP Email jkshaw@jhug.co.nz or at our facebook page by Wednesday 16th June. Drinks and nibbles provided …

30 May 11 In the Auckland region over the last few weeks there has been media interest in the growing ground swell of awareness towards preserving our impressive surfing coast. Surfbreaks are at the centre of many of our coastal …

24 May 11 What do Auckland Surfbreaks mean to you? The attached guide will help you to let Auckland Council know. Auckland City are calling on interested individuals and groups to let them know their thoughts on how the city …

19 Apr 11 The Aramoana hearings continued today in earnest. Nic Reeves of Surfbreak Protection presented our evidence to the committee including a must see video that includes some sick surfing footage (see below). Nic’s presentation was well received. A …

27 Mar 11 Auckland Council is commencing work on their spatial plan. Make sure you have your say on surfing on the Auckland Region’s coastline. The regional plans will be crucial for surfbreak policy inclusions as there are no, recognised …

27 Mar 11 It looks like the uproar over the controversial barrier has paid dividends. A consultation process is planned to begin this week. Members of Gisborne City Council and New Zealand Transport Agency are said to want to talk …

27 Mar 11 For the second year in a row Volcom, a major surfing brand, has made a substantial donation to Surfbreak Protection Society. Thanks Volcom, your support is gratefully received and helps heaps with the development of programmes to …

27 Mar 11 Some locals say Whanga Bar is a goner and have given up the fight. Not us, Whanga is worth fighting for. After all it’s a 10 out of 10 (Wavetrack Guide) and legislated as a nationally significant …

25 Mar 11 Gisborne City Council and New Zealand Transport Authority have collaborated to build a new traffic safety barrier on the coast highway from the southern end of Makarori Beach to the top of the hill before you head …

05 Mar 11 Good news for surfers and other coastal users as water quality will surely improve as fencing and planting streambanks is fast becoming the norm among Taranaki farmers. By the end of December, the Taranaki Regional Council had …

05 Mar 11 The application for resource consent has been placed on hold at the request of the applicant (Napier City Council) and is with their lawyers. We do not believe it is in the interests of the wider Hawkes …

03 Mar 11 Recent developments have reinforced the urgent need for effective spatial planning of our coasts, lakesides and sea. EDS’s 2011 conference is an opportunity to be a part of managing the preservation and sustainability of our outstanding natural …

03 Mar 11 Submissions to the Proposed Waikato Regional Policy Statement (PWRPS) closed this week. The Waikato as a surfing region stretches from Mokau to Port Waikato in the west and covers the Coromandel in the east and has several …

26 Feb 11 Our thoughts go out to everyone in the Christchurch and surrounding area as you deal with the horrific effects of the recent earthquake.

26 Feb 11 The recently released NZCPS legislation appears to be having a very positive effect on surfers ability to influence RPS (regional policy statement) reviews in an increasing number of regions. Long may this continue. In some early signs …

12 Feb 11 A vessel spotted working in the North Taranaki Bight has re-ignited debate about ironsand mining. The self-propelled barge, Brandywine, has been seen during the last three weeks near the Pohokura production platform. The ship is owned by …

12 Feb 11 Earlier we reported the threat to the Napier City Reef surfbreak. Read the attached letter for a full update on what’s happening there. Keep an eye out for public notification of the resource consent application and make …

06 Feb 11 We received an encouraging letter this week from our Ozzie cousins. The letter reads ‘On behalf of National Surfing Reserves (Australia) and World Surfing Reserves, we would like to congratulate the NZ Surf Break Protection Society on …

06 Feb 11 The raffle winner of the Tony Ogle print has been drawn along with 2x Surfbreak T-shirt winners. The lucky winner of the Tony Ogle ‘Indicators’ print is Gary Dick of Auckland. The two T-shirt winners are P …

Waldronville residents Nic and Jay have organised a community cleanup of the Kaikorai Estuary in conjunction with the Dunedin City Councils ‘Great Dunedin Coastal Cleanup” during Seaweek 1st-8th march 2009 This took place Sunday 1st March from 10am at the …

20 Jan 11 People with an interest in waves have contributed to a study on what makes the Bay of Plenty’s surf breaks important. The study is being undertaken by Lincoln University planning student Bailey Peryman, with support from the …

The Southland District and Southland District Council have announced dates for hearings for the resource consent application to place a high intensity dairy farm into the Porpoise Bay catchment. The dates for the pre hearing is 24 February 2009 and …

20 Dec 10 A study is underway to find out about the Bay’s great surf breaks from locals. Two workshops have been organised in January to talk to surfers about their favourite surf breaks and what makes them important, as …

25 Nov 10 Get on to "Love your Coast" coastal clean up events coming to many regions in the next few weeks. worst epidemics. Plastic is filling our oceans fast. Vast islands of the stuff float around constantly. Marine birds …

25 Nov 10 Is the Whanga Bar broken? Long term locals know it is! Unfortunately too many visitors experience the wave as better than their locals (particularly Aucklanders). This doesn’t mean it is not broken it just says heaps about …

25 Nov 10 Since 1996 this group has been involved in research on artificial surfing reefs as part of the development of New Zealand’s first artificial surfing reef at Mount Maunganui. The focus is the environmental impacts, particularly social impacts, …

25 Nov 10 There has been an oil spill at one of the permanent floating vessels at the Maari oil field off the Taranaki coast, operator OMV says. The spill occurred on Saturday and the amount of oil leaked is …

20 Nov 10 With the launch of the NZCPS (New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement) and specific inclusion of 19 surfbreaks, we ask the question what does this protection mean? The Whanga Bar is a good case in point right now. …

19 Nov 10 Join Surfbreak NOW or RENEW your membership for 2011 and go in the draw for 2 tickets to the Jack Johnson concert at New Plymouth (28 Nov) or Auckland (2 Dec). 2 draws for New Plymouth and …

19 Nov 10 Buy raffle tickets (look for this promotional poster) at selected surf shops, from Surfbreak Protection committee members or contact us online. Tickets $2 each or 3 tickets for $5. All proceeds go to Surfbreak Protection Society to …

14 Nov 10 Raglan locals are worried by the latest threat to their iconic point breaks. Exploratory Oil drilling has come to the coast just off Raglan. A protest event took place on Saturday 13 November. Read the full story …

09 Nov 10 Surfbreak Protection Society has successfully settled its Environment Court appeal on the Whangamata wastewater issue – for a second time. In 2007 Surfbreak Protection Society, jointly with Clean Water Whangamata, appealed the Whangamata Wastewater Plant upgrade proposal, …

09 Nov 10 Listen to podcaast of the ‘Saving Waves’ lecture given last month by Paul Shanks and Matt Skellern. It is now available as a podcast produced by The School of Architecture and Planning, The University of Auckland. Listen …

06 Nov 10 The developer has withdrawn his court appeal to reverse the Rodney decision not to allow him to develop at Te Arai Point. Our last unspoilt piece of surfing coastline near Auckland is safe for now. Surfbreak Protection …

06 Nov 10 Annual Surfbreak Protection Grant announced. A SurfBreak Protection Grant has been announced by the SurfBreak Protection Society to provide assistance to those involved in undertaking research / education that support the objectives of the SurfBreak Protection Society …

28 Sep 10 The consent hearing for Port Otago’s Project Next Generation harbour-dredging application may be put on hold for up to six months because of the number of submissions to the application, at this stage confirmed for March 2011. …

28 Sep 10 All of us Hawkes Bay surfers need to seriously get our act together and start an active campaign to safeguard our break at City Reef (Napier) otherwise it will join Harding Road as yet another stuffed historical …

23 Sep 10 A lecture by Paul Shanks and Matt Skellern 26 October 2010 6pm, Venue: Design Lecture Theatre, NICAI Conference Centre, 22 Symonds St, Auckland. © John Wilson Paul Shanks won the Ministry for the Environment Green Ribbon in 2006, …

23 Sep 10 The little known but highly regarded Napier "City Reef" is in danger of extinction as a result of a breakwater construction plan. Some locals are taking on the district authority but need all locals to have their …

22 Aug 10 Volcom’s V.Co-Logical Series represents Volcom’s socially responsible movement towards sustainability. In this collection you’ll find more sustainable materials and/or less impactful production methods blended with our signature styling. Additionally 1% of every dollar you spend in this …

14 Aug 10 As populations increase and development to sustain these populations place more demands on the natural environment, some of our national surfing treasures come under threat. One such treasure, is the world class surf break at Aramoana, also …

13 Jul 10 In May we reported that the long awaited NZ Coastal Policy Statement (NZCPS) had been leaked by one of the Board of Inquiry (BOI) members Philip Woollaston. The Minister of Conservation had been sitting on the new …

28 Jun 10 Monitoring raises concerns over Bar and Tidal Jet performance. Last week Whangamata Camping Association and Surfbreak Protection Society members met in Whangamata, mainly to study all the Bar surveys that have been conducted as part of a …

28 Jun 10 Recent comments by West Coast surfers near Auckland suggest that the popular Piha reform (ditch) has almost completely disappeared. The local community is working on this issue but this popular beach seems to have lost one of …

20 Jun 10 Today is International Surfing Day for 2010. Please take a minute to read the following message from ISA President Fernando Aguerre. It’s a great reminder for us all. Well done to all those in NZ holding events …

30 May 10 See the attached guide for what to do if you come across a whale stranding and want to help save these beautiful creatures. Click here.

17 May 10 For the last 20 – 30 years the Waitara community, including surfers has been calling for a Sewage pipeline to avoid (treated) effluent from poluting the coastal area. This issue has reached another head with the latest …

17 May 10 In February Surfbreak Protection wrote to the Minister of Conservation asking why it took so long for the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement Board of Inquiry report to be released, and requesting a copy of the report. …

17 May 10 There are more threats to the surf breaks of Taranaki than are immediately obvious. Just because they appear in the media once they do not go away. Developers are continually beavering away on their plans to exploit …

25 Apr 10 2-3 June 2010 Aotea Centre, The Edge, Auckland, New Zealand EDS’s national conference Reform in Paradise II will build on the success of last year’s event and examine key elements of the government’s environmental reform agenda. The …

19 Mar 10 The Maya Bar 20 Blair St, Wellington Proudly Presents… The Fool’s Paradise Party!!! Saturday 20th March, Starts at 5 PM through to 6 AM Sunday Come down and share a toast to the illusion of Clean Green …

13 Feb 10 In 2007 the Ministry of Conservation embarked on the Review of the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement (NZCPS). The original NZCPS was introduced in 1994 and the RMA (Resource Management Act) required that a review be put …

18 Jan 10 We will be present at the World Juniors in Piha from 21st to 28th January and we have a brand new T-shirt range we will be promoting and selling at the event for only $25 each. Our …

07 Oct 09 The appeals against the new dairy farm operation have been withdrawn. The potential for substantially poluted waterways, marine habitats and ecosystems at Porpoise Bay and Waikawa inlet remains a distinct possibility. About a week ago the appeals …

05 Oct 09 Manawatu coastal environment – have your say – deadline looming. Coastal environments, such as dunes and estuaries, are recognised as nationally significant eco-systems in New Zealand. Conservation programmes and community projects that help to conserve these areas …

15 Nov 09 With Paige Hareb’s success on the world stage a once in a lifetime opportunity presented itself to Taranaki, a WCT event at home. Womens surfing has blossomed over recent years and the overwhelming majority of New Zealand’s …

12 Sep 09 Recently we reported New Plymouth District Council’s (what we thought were) decisions on very innovative coastal development restrictions. Some corrections to this earlier news item follow New Plymouth District Council contacted us with the following comments. Their …

02 Sep 09 Surfbreak Protection Society’s AGM is to be held in New Plymouth on Saturday 26th September 2009. Everyone is welcome, so come to our AGM and make an excuse for a surf highway 45 roadie at the same …

24 Aug 09 This feature documentary film has been made and released to raise awareness of the atrocious and unnecessary slaughter of Dolphins. Local Dunedin surfer Tony Denley has been campaigning hard to raise awareness of the atrocious and unnecessary …

24 Aug 09 The inevitable decision by the developers to appeal the Rodney District Council’s plan change decision has been confirmed. Te Arai Point is a wilderness that is rarely found near Auckland these days. The Rodney District Council’s decision …

24 Aug 09 Save the Waves have listed many New Zealand surfbreaks with the intention of helping to create World Surfing Reserves (WSR) across the globe. Read on for instructions on how to view these surfbreaks. Using Google Earth®, Save …

27 Jul 09 The New Plymouth District Council has approved a policy aimed at protecting the district’s unique geodiversity, by restricting new construction that can be seen from any beach. Some corrections made to this item 12th September 2009. See …

09 Jul 09 The construction bund (embankment) of the partially built Whangamata marina completely failed recently after rain on 29th June 2009. The entire construction area was flooded as a result of 110cm of rain falling in the previous 24 …

08 Jul 09 Rodney District Council has declined the application for a District Plan Change, that would have cleared the way for developers to damage the natural characteristics, wilderness and remote feel of the Te Arai Point and Black Swamp …

08 Jul 09 Surfbreak Protection wishes to extend its condolences to the family and friends of Christchurch surfer and environmental campaigner Jonathan McCarthy, who died on 24th June 2009. Jonathan was a founding member of the Sumner Longboarders and a …

24 May 09 Surfers take the freedom of surfing on our awesome coastline for granted. The revision of the Resource Management Act (RMA) has the potential to favour developer interests over the natural environment. Surfbreak Protection Society’s Paul Shanks & …

29 Mar 09 David Storck, Piha surfer and Surfbreak Protection committee member has won the Hyundai Pro Longboard Over 50’s title for 2009. Congratulations David! With a 2nd at the final event at Port Waikato this weekend David has taken …

19 Apr 09 Concerned about future water safety at Whangamata, Surfbreak spoke to their submission at the recent Waikato Regional Council Safety and Navigational Bylaws hearings, held in Hamilton on 31st March 2009. © John Wilson The WRC review committee took …

09 Apr 09 The Southland Regional Council held hearings for a proposed dairy farm in the Porpoise Bay, Curio Bay and Haldane Bay catchments on 1st and 2nd April 2009. The decision on whether to allow the dairy farm will …

04 Apr 09 Surfbreak Protection has some concerns about, and is opposed to aspects of the Resource Management Amendment (simplifying & streamlining) Bill. Surfbreak does also support some aspects of the Bill. In SPS’s submission many of the changes suggested to be …

The marina at Whangamata has been under construction for 7 months. The marina entrance is now being built with surfers questioning the integrity It seems is that Heb contractors are not following a consistent construction path at the marina entrance …

27 Mar 09 Following the formal passing of the Taranaki regional plan on February 24th 2008 which granted protection [ which included swell corridors] from inappropriate development, the TRC has commenced work on updating the TARANAKI COASTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT. © Daisy …

12 Mar 09 The Te Arai hearings at Orewa for the Rodney District Plan change began on Monday 2nd March 2009 with the applicants getting the week to present their case. Surfbreak presented it’s evidence on Wednesday afternoon of week …

Taranaki Regional Council protects Surfbreaks. On February 24th 2009 the Taranaki Regional Council voted to formalise the 2009 Taranaki Regional Plan which gives protection to 83 surfbreaks from “Inappropriate development”, as well as protecting the water quality of surfbreaks and initiating procedures to maintain and enhance “low-impact” public access to the breaks.

24 Feb 09 Surfbreak Protection Society has put a submission into the Waikato Regional Council Navigation and Safety Bylaws. The Navigation and Safety Bylaws look at all the navigable waterways in the Waikato Region. Within this region there are two …

The creation of an artificial channel that needs to be constantly dredged to remain open (and the marina viable) is of concern to surfers. All sand removed will be placed on land over a 35 year period. All this activity is 1km from the Whangamata Bar, a sand bar that uses this area as part of its sand reservoir

24 Feb 09 Gisborne’s Wainui beach residents have formed a community organisation to look after the beach and surrounding land. A special focus is on water quality of the local surf breaks. They have had to become involved in Council …

23 Feb 09 Waldronville residents Nic and Jay have organised a community cleanup of the Kaikorai Estuary in conjunction with the Dunedin City Councils ‘Great Dunedin Coastal Cleanup" during Seaweek 1st-8th march 2009 This took place Sunday 1st March from …

23 Feb 09 The Southland District and Southland District Council have announced dates for hearings for the resource consent application to place a high intensity dairy farm into the Porpoise Bay catchment. © Nic Reeves – phoam.co.nz The dates for the …

If the Marina Society have submitted a plan for the sandbar monitoring, could our Society please have a copy for review and comment prior to your final determinations on the plan. Letter to Environment Waikato dated 7th December 2007 here: Surfbreak …