World-Class Lifesaving Talent On Show At 2025 Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships

Some of the world’s fastest lifesaving athletes will compete in Auckland this weekend for the 2025 Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships, a showcase of both sporting excellence and lifesaving capability.

The three-day event runs from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 September at the Sir Owen G. Glenn National Aquatic Centre.

The Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships demonstrate the vital link between lifesaving sport and real-life rescue readiness. Athletes from across New Zealand will compete in events that mirror the skills needed to save lives on our beaches.

Representing 74 clubs and more than 18,000 members, Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) is proud to deliver this high-energy championship that not only inspires excellence but also strengthens the frontline of beach safety. These championships are about more than medals; they celebrate determination, discipline, and the drive to protect communities.

This year’s event has attracted 558 entries from 32 New Zealand clubs and two Australian (the New South Wales state team and the Australian Lifesaving team). National Sport Manager, Lewis McClintock, said the growth in entries was a great sign for the sport. “With entries up by 20% this year, and with teams coming across from Australia, we’re set for an exciting competition. None of it would be possible without the commitment of our 60-plus volunteers – from officials and administrators to water crew and commentators – who make this event such a memorable experience for our community.”

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Spectators can look forward to seeing some of the sport’s brightest stars in action. Red Beach’s Zoe Pedersen returns following her gold medal at the World Aquatics Junior Swimming Championships, where she triumphed in the 50m Butterfly. Pedersen, a Junior Black Fin, also holds the Youth World Record in the 100m Rescue Medley and is tipped to be a standout performer. From Mairangi Bay, Zoe Crawford and Fergus Eadie are fresh from impressive performances at the recent World Games in Chengdu. Zoe is the current world record holder in the 100m Manikin Tow with Fins, and Fergus holds the world record in the 50m Manikin Carry. Adding international flavour to the competition are two squads from Australia who are set to test New Zealand’s best.

The Surf Life Saving community will also be throwing their support behind two junior competitors who are each the sole-entry from their respective clubs. Keep an eye out for Shing-long Li-Wilson from Levin Waitārere Beach SLSC, and Lexie Palmer from Spencer Park SLSC in Christchurch.

The event also marks the second year of Aon’s support as Surf Life Saving New Zealand’s newest Major Partner. Their backing continues to elevate the competition, ensuring athletes and supporters alike enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Melissa Cantell, CEO of New Zealand for Aon says “We’re proud be part of the 2025 Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championship. It’s fantastic to support the event where athletes from across the motu compete to hone their skills so they’re ready to patrol our beaches over the summer to keep our communities safe. With our nationwide network of Aon colleagues and branches, we have a long history of supporting the communities in which we operate. We’re excited to build on this by flying our flags at this event with Surf Life Saving New Zealand – bringing to life our shared purpose to proactively reduce risk through Better Decisions. Wishing all the competitors the very best of luck!”

Zac Franich, GM Sport for Surf Life Saving New Zealand, says: “We are grateful to Aon for their strong support, which helps us deliver this world-class championship and strengthen the future of lifesaving sport. We can’t wait to see our athletes come together in Auckland, chasing records, pushing boundaries, and celebrating the true spirit of surf lifesaving.”

For further information about the Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships, visit the event page: Surf Lifesaving NZ - Aon New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships

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