Top surfers lose key sponsorships

Paige Hareb. File photo / APN

The surf's out for three of New Zealand's top surfers - dumped by their sponsors in the wake of the competition season.

Paige Hareb, almost as well known for taking on Hayley Holt in the Fight for Life, is the latest to have the plug pulled on her contract with Australian surf label Billabong. The 21-year-old is ranked in the top 35 women surfers in the world.

Hareb joins Ricardo Christie, dumped by Rip Curl last month, and Sarah Mason, who at just 16 was pegged to be "the next big thing". She has been cut from the Roxy team.

Christie said he had anticipated he would get a better deal with Rip Curl this year but was instead given a month's notice at Christmas.

"It came out of the blue completely. It had been my best year, everything was going to plan," he said.

He had enough savings to self-fund this year, but estimated the travel and costs to compete in the world series could set him back $80,000.

The three surfers have retained minor sponsors, who contribute equipment but only small amounts of money.

Christie said everyone in the industry was taking the changes hard. He was good friends with Hareb and Mason.

"I think Paige is doing okay but Sarah's struggling a lot more," he said.

Rip Curl team manager Leon Parkin said it was a tough time for the industry and cuts had to be made.

"[Christie] had a very good run for three years. If you're not at the top of your game, if you're not Federer, it's hard for the company to justify."

Christie was ranked in the top 50 surfers in the world.

Billabong marketing manager John Mossop also cited commercial pressures.

"We needed some rationalisation and re-balancing within our team and ultimately we were unable to retain Paige within the new structure," he said.

"It was a difficult decision because Paige is a fine surfer and is a strong addition to any team."

Roxy did not respond to calls.