Surfer Paddle Out to Save the Wave

This 'Surfer Paddle Out' on the 16th of October 2011 is a national event designed to bring attention to the very real threat proposed to the protected Aramoana Wave. An event organised by the Surfbreak Protection Society, simultaneous paddle outs will be held at many of the other 26 protected surf breaks around New Zealand.

Aramoana, also known as 'The Spit', is a surf break of both national and international significance due to its clean offset peaks and barreling pits held in a variety of swell sizes and directions. One of the only offshore breaks in the prevailing southerly winds around Dunedin, Aramoana is protected by law under Policy 16 of the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement 2010.

Dumping of spoil in the swell corridor of the Aramoana surf break from harbour dredging by Port of Otago has affected the delicate bathymetric conditions that contribute to the high class surf wave since 1985. Surfers and bodyboarders have noted a gradual deterioration of wave quality over the years, especially of late, and fear that continued dumping of dredged spoil may cause irreversible adverse effects on the wave quality.

A recent resource consent application by Port of Otago has been lodged to continue dumping spoil at the Aramoana/Spit, Heywards Point and Shelley beach dumpsites, with the intention of much greater volumes than have been placed there in the last 10 years. We feel that the application for consent renewal by Port Otago has minimal science behind it and we are urging that independent specialist 'surf science' monitoring be conducted immediately prior to any further dumping.

The 'Surfer Paddle Out' will involve surfers and other concerned individuals paddling out at the Aramoana Beach and forming a circle for an arresting photo. The paddle out aims to create a visual impact and increase public awareness about the threat that this famous wave is under.

Please help to spread the awareness around this issue, this world-renowned wave needs to be protected the proposed dumping that will threaten its existence, even despite legal protection policies.

Save the Wave!

ENDS

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