Frequently Asked Questions
CATCH A WAVE DAYS
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.
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.
When are the events held?
The events are held between December and March each year. Two events are scheduled for the 2009/2010 summer season - Saturday 23rd January and Saturday 6th March 2010.
Where are the events held?
The events are held at Omanu Beach next to the Omanu Surf Club.
How long do the events run for?
Event days generally run from 10am – lunch time depending on number of participants. Surfing is followed by a BBQ and certificate presentation.
PARTICIPANTS
Does the location have wheelchair access & bathrooms?
Yes, Omanu Beach was chosen as the event location as it is wheelchair accessible and has disabled bathroom facilities available.
Do I need to pay?
Participants are encouraged to join as a member. Annual membership is $20 and covers participation and BBQ at each event. Registering for one event is possible with a cost of $12.
What do I need to bring?
Bring along your swimmers, towel, sunscreen, hat and warm jumper.
VOLUNTEERS
Do I need to be a surfer to help out?
No. All you need is a great attitude and willingness to help ensure a fun and safe day for the participants. Being a surfer will help with assisting in the surf but is not essential.
Do I have to get wet?
No. There are a number of volunteer roles that do not require you to be in the water. You can participate with roles such as cooking the BBQ, setting up the event etc.
What qualifications/skills do I need?
There are no specific skills required to help out. There will be trained Team Leaders about on the day to coach you and help you in your volunteering role.
What do I need to bring?
Bring your swimmers, towel, hat, sunscreen and a warm jumper.
DONATIONS
How do I help fund the Disabled Surfers Association?
The Disabled Surfers Association is funded by donations, trusts and the generosity of the general public and New Zealand businesses. Please make any donations to:
Westpac
Account Name: The Disabled Surfers Association of New Zealand
Account Number: 030252 0594773-00
Surfers Helping Surfers!
New Zealand's first not-for-profit organisation giving people of any disability the chance to experience a safe surfing and beach experience
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.
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.
When are the events held?
The events are held between December and March each year. Two events are scheduled for the 2009/2010 summer season - Saturday 23rd January and Saturday 6th March 2010.
Where are the events held?
The events are held at Omanu Beach next to the Omanu Surf Club.
How long do the events run for?
Event days generally run from 10am – lunch time depending on number of participants. Surfing is followed by a BBQ and certificate presentation.
PARTICIPANTS
Does the location have wheelchair access & bathrooms?
Yes, Omanu Beach was chosen as the event location as it is wheelchair accessible and has disabled bathroom facilities available.
Do I need to pay?
Participants are encouraged to join as a member. Annual membership is $20 and covers participation and BBQ at each event. Registering for one event is possible with a cost of $12.
What do I need to bring?
Bring along your swimmers, towel, sunscreen, hat and warm jumper.
VOLUNTEERS
Do I need to be a surfer to help out?
No. All you need is a great attitude and willingness to help ensure a fun and safe day for the participants. Being a surfer will help with assisting in the surf but is not essential.
Do I have to get wet?
No. There are a number of volunteer roles that do not require you to be in the water. You can participate with roles such as cooking the BBQ, setting up the event etc.
What qualifications/skills do I need?
There are no specific skills required to help out. There will be trained Team Leaders about on the day to coach you and help you in your volunteering role.
What do I need to bring?
Bring your swimmers, towel, hat, sunscreen and a warm jumper.
DONATIONS
How do I help fund the Disabled Surfers Association?
The Disabled Surfers Association is funded by donations, trusts and the generosity of the general public and New Zealand businesses. Please make any donations to:
Westpac
Account Name: The Disabled Surfers Association of New Zealand
Account Number: 030252 0594773-00
Surfers Helping Surfers!
New Zealand's first not-for-profit organisation giving people of any disability the chance to experience a safe surfing and beach experience