DUNGA DERBY

FREESTYLIN': Dylan Walsh Munro in longboarding action. Enthusiasts of this classic board style will step back in time next weekend at the Dunga Derby featuring traditional boards dating back to the 50s and 60s. Picture courtesy of Origins of Light

Surfers will descend on Makorori to ride decades-old surfboards at the annual Dune Dogz Dunga Derby next weekend.

Event organiser Sam Gibson says the kaupapa (theme/principle) of the day is celebrating traditionally-shaped longboards and community, rather than a fully-fledged competition.

“It's a vintage longboard comp . . . we're giving surfers the opportunity to ride boards from the 50s and 60s.

“The 60s were so experimental. There were so many different shapes and styles of board.”

Many of the more successful shapes and designs were “surfed to death”, and the boards that have survived through the ages are the more alternative shapes that offer a window into the evolution of the surfboard, he said.

“Old boards are so hit and miss . . . and the ones that have survived are probably dungas.

“It's about appreciating what we ride now. . . and figuring out what's why we don't do this type of design anymore.”

People are welcome to bring their own vintage boards but collectors will provide a selection of boards for those who don't have one.

While there is a competitive element, the focus is on having fun in an “unintimidating platform”.

“No one can ride these boards very well . . . it's not about how good you are.”

Heat scoring at the Dunga Derby will be scaled.

“If someone does something cool, you might make it right through. . . it's all about style and riding traditional, stiff boards as well as you can.”

The action starts at 7am at Northen Makorori on January 31.

There are men's, women's and under-18 divisions.

Entry is $10 and attendees are encouraged to wear a Hawaiian shirt and bring a plate of food to share.

• Updates can be found on the Dune Dogz' Instagram @dune_dogz