Northland lifeguards showered with awards

Northland lifeguards were recognised when Surf Life Saving Northern Region celebrated the top lifeguards in the region at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday night.

Far North, Waipu Cove, Mangawhai Heads and Whangarei Heads clubs were all represented by winners for lifesaving, volunteering and service to their club.

One of the major awards of the evening, Starboard Lifeguard of the Year, went to Richard Kannemeyer from Mangawhai Heads club.

Surf Life Saving Northern Region chief executive Pam Elgar said Mr Kannemeyer had given up countless hours to reach that level of nomination, and he truly deserved the recognition.

"Richard has led the operational lifeguarding of the Mangawhai club into a new era of professionalism, on not only its beach but on other beaches that he has taken Mangawhai patrols to," she said.

"He has stepped up beyond the expectations of his role as club captain by taking on instructional roles and up-skilling all members in the club to achieve their very best."

Mr Kannemeyer and Tony Baker were also recognised for their service to the Mangawhai Heads club.

Father-daughter duo Nicola Howes and Rob Howes were recognised for their service to Whangarei Heads surf lifesaving club.

Laura Andrews from Waipu Cove was named under-19 Lifeguard of the Year and the award for Volunteer of the Year went to Liz Arcus and Simon Smith from Far North Rescue.

Surf Life Saving Northern Region said in a statement the pair had been instrumental in ensuring Far North Rescue continues to grow in numbers and support from the community.