Northland rookie lifeguards looking to take up the mantle of fully qualified guards came together over the weekend for a groundbreaking training camp.
It was the first time four of the region's surf lifesaving clubs - Waipū Cove, Ruakākā, Whangārei Heads, and Mangawhai Heads - had joined forces to deliver a camp for young guards.
Thirty-two teenagers took part in activities that included learning the art of rock rescues in the swell, providing first aid and CPR, rescue techniques using tubes and rescue boards.
Training went beyond surf lifesaving and into protecting the beach environment. The rookie guards learnt how to trap pests and ways to protect endangered Fairy Terns.
