KEY POINTS:
New Zealand will be represented by a 10-strong team at the nine-day world surfing games beginning on October 11 at Costa Da Caparica in Portugal.
This is the first time since 2002 that New Zealand have sent a full team of surfers to the bi-ennial event.
"The team is strong across all divisions with each of the surfers having excelled at their respective domestic surfing events in New Zealand," national selector Ben Kennings said.
New Zealand finished 13th in 2004 and 12th in 2006.
"On both occasions we were not at full capacity so coming into this event we expect the New Zealand team to climb the ratings significantly," Kennings said.
Team manager Dave van Staden said with the likes of Gisborne's Maz Quinn and Luke Cederman in the side, New Zealand are expecting to make an impact on the top sides such as defending champions Australia, USA, Hawaii and South Africa.
South African surfer Jordy Smith is the reigning men's individual champion.
New Zealand
Open men: Maz Quinn (Gisborne), Leon Santorik, Luke Cederman, Zennor Wernham (all Raglan)
Longboard: Daryn McBride (Mt Maunganui);
Bodyboard: Jarad Ferris (Gisborne), Andrew Lowe (Blaketown).
Open women: Jessica Santorik (Raglan), Daisy Thomas (Christchurch).
Bodyboard: Mihi Wells (Auckland).
- NZPA
