Hangaroa's Megan Campbell was among those to join the Surfing For Farmers fraternity last season, and she made the most it at The Pipe break at Midway. Photo / Supplied
Hangaroa's Megan Campbell was among those to join the Surfing For Farmers fraternity last season, and she made the most it at The Pipe break at Midway. Photo / Supplied
Farmers will swap their Swanndris and four-wheelers for wetsuits and boards for the opening session of the 2025-2026 Surfing for Farmers (SFF) initiative in Gisborne on Tuesday.
The summer programme, which gives farmers “the perfect break” from what can be a daily grind, will also be held at Kaiaua Beach,north of Tolaga Bay. The first session for that is on Thursday.
Started in Gisborne by local man Stephen Thomson eight years ago, SFF brings farmers together at beaches around the country to relax, connect and catch some waves.
The free nationwide initiative encourages farmers to step away from the farm, try something new and focus on their wellbeing. Surf coaching, gear and a barbecue are provided at each local session.
Weekly sessions are being held at 25 locations around the country, ranging from Sandy Bay in Northland to Colac Bay in Southland.
Phil Ware was among the nearly three dozen local farmers at this session of Surfing for Farmers last season. The 2025-2026 Gisborne SFF begins at Midway Beach on Tuesday night. Photo / Supplied
Beef+Lamb New Zealand is among the principal sponsors again this season.
“We are proud to support Surfing for Farmers as a community partner,” B+LNZ said. “It helps strengthen rural connections and promote farmer wellbeing across the country.”
The initiative attracted more than 8000 farmers and growers across 25 beaches last summer.
“SFF recognises the importance of providing an outlet that liberates individuals from the daily grind and overwhelming to-do lists,” SFF says on its website.
“By engaging in surfing activities, our farmers and growers gain a renewed perspective and prioritise their own self-care. This simple yet effective approach enables participants nationwide to place themselves at the forefront of their responsibilities.”
The Gisborne and Kaiua sessions start at 5.30pm.
Stephen Thomson (stephen.t@bayleysgisborne.co.nz) is the local contact.
Farmers can register on the SFF website, which also has comprehensive information on the initiative.
