History
“Learn about the history of surf lifesaving at Levin–Waitarere, where dedicated volunteers have safeguarded the beach for generations. Look through photographs and see how the club has grown into a key part of the community.”
Timeline
The Pavillion. ‘Joan and Dad’ on back of photo
1953
1969
Members of Levin-Waitarere Surf Lifesaving club during a break in practice at Waitarere Beach.
Horowhenua Historical Society Inc
Horowhenua C.C. bulldozer operator Mr E. Kapene forms a driveway to the Levin-Waitarere Surf Lifesaving Club’s building.
1969
Horowhenua Historical Society Inc
Waitarere Surf Life-saving Club on the opening day of the club’s season. The canoe, was presented by the Lion Clubs of Levin.
1969
Horowhenua Historical Society Inc
1975
Jet rescue boat at the National surf championships.
IRB (inflatable rescue boats) were introduced in the late 1970s and have now become a key piece of rescue equipment.
1970s
1980s
Extra storage was needed so a gear shed was built.
2009
Patrol caravan unveiling.
2014
Surf club members at the annual prize giving..
2019
Mid-winter swim.
Original surf club building before it got demolished on November 6th 2023
2023
2023
Our new building Te Whare Waitā was officially opened on the 2nd of December 2023.
Te Whare Waitā
Our surf lifesaving Club building
'Te Whare Waitā’ translates to ‘the house of Waitā’. Waitā, one of the stars in the Matariki constellation, is connected with the ocean and food gathered from the seas. You can look upon this star to set intentions of protecting our salt waters and living creatures in it; a fitting name for the facility housing the Waitārere Surf Life Saving Club.
To all our supporters - ngā mihi nui, thank you. We are so grateful for your contributions - this project is possible because of you!
Ngāti Raukawa, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, Horowhenua District Council, Surf Life Saving New Zealand, Lottery Grants Board, Eastern and Central Community Trust, Levin Sport Charitable Trust, Levin Charitable Trust, Graeme Bagrie Contracts Ltd, Stephen Abbot (RFDesign), Homestead Construction and Building Contractor, Waitārere Beach Progressive Association, Waitārere Beach Scouts, Waitārere Beach fishing club, Waitārere Beach wardens, NZ Police, Waiopehu College, Horowhenua College, Rotary Club, Lions Club, Altrusa Club, Koputaroa School, Poroutawhao School, Levin District Brass Band, Waitārere Beach Fire Brigade, Levin Swimming Club, Search and Rescue Squad.