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Summer’s coming, which means it’s time for farmers and growers to take time out from the land and get into the sea again, thanks to another Surfing for Farmers season at Waipu Cove.
The weekly surf lessons and post-session barbecues have become a popular way for rural people to take a break from the farm and meet up with like-minded people, since Stephen Thomson started the initiative in Gisborne seven years ago.
Since then, Surfing for Farmers sessions have expanded quickly to include 25 beaches around the country, with more than 8000 people in the ag and hort sectors taking part to date.
Organisers say the sessions give farmers and growers a good reason to get off the farm and away from day-to-day pressures that can become all-consuming.
Thanks to national and local sponsorship, plus volunteer coordinators, all equipment, food and drink are free, making it accessible to all.
This summer, the Waipu Cove sessions are moving to Wednesday evenings, starting on January 8 at 5.30pm.
Local coordinators Sophia Wood and Katrina Stead say they are already gearing up for another great season, which regularly sees at least 20 or 30 farmers catching some Waipu wave action, but they are still looking for some sponsorship.
“Let us know if you or your business are keen to be a ‘local legend’ sponsor,” they say. “This could be financial or in-kind – get in touch and we can talk through some options.”
Surfing for Farmers is open to all ages, abilities and fitness levels, and no surfing experience is necessary. Lessons at Waipu are provided by local instructors from Learn 2 Surf Waipu Cove, and there is no obligation to attend every week – just turn up on the night.
Surfing for Farmers says the summer evenings, which run for around three months, offer a respite from the all-encompassing demands of rural life, as well as fostering social connections.
“We recognise the importance of providing an outlet that liberates individuals from the daily grind and overwhelming to-do lists,” says a spokesperson. “By engaging in surfing activities, our farmers and growers gain a renewed perspective and prioritise their own self-care.”
For more information or to discuss local sponsorship, contact Sophia Wood on 021 227 4379 or Katrina Stead on 027 489 7343, or see Surfing for Farmers – Northland on Facebook.
