Disabled get taste of surf stoke at special event

Physically disabled Northlanders will take to the waves in a surf day at Sandy Bay.

Hosted by the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation, today's event offers up to 20 physically disabled Northlanders the opportunity of four hours of surfing experience from 10am.

With 15 people registered as of yesterday, there were still a few places left for people wanting to participate, Halberg Disability Sport Foundation spokeswoman Bonnie Small said. People who are interested should contact Maia Lewis on 021 995 951.

The day is also set to include have-a-go beach games and activities and a sausage sizzle for participants and volunteers.

The Flight Centre Foundation is also donating an adjustable beach wheelchair to Tutukaka Surf to ensure they can continue to offer support and events for physically disabled young Kiwis interested in surfing.

This equipment will enable wheelchair users to traverse beaches and roll straight into the water.

The Halberg Disability Sport Foundation is working in partnership with Surfing New Zealand, Tokerau Beachboys, Tutukaka Surf and Tiaho Trust to deliver the day. Volunteers from those organisations, NorthTec students, Flight Centre staff and local community members have received 'No Exceptions Training' (NET) from the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation to provide them with the skills and confidence to support the participants at the event.