Surf Carnival

Fresh from new triumphs at the New Zealand national surf championships at Waihi, Gisborne surfers put on a fine display at Wainui Beach last month in a carnival which drew a large attendance of the general public. All the fire local clubs—Waikanae, Midway, Wainui, Gisborne, and Gisborne Ladies—took part. Wainui Beach is noted for its open surf, but on the day it was in a moderately restrained mood.

This photograph, taken during the march past, shows Waikanae splashing through the shallow water in their path.

Barry McLean (Waikanae Seniors), the New Zealand champion beltman, leading his team in the six-man event. Next team in line is Waikanae Juniors, the N.Z. junior champions.

Teams away in the beltman's race.

The beltmen hitting the water. In order, from nearest, the teams are Wainui, Midway, and Waikanae.

Teams paying out the rope. In order, they are Wainui, Gisborne Ladies, Midway, Waikanae.

Spectators had wonderful view of proceedings from natural grandstand on sandhills.

Waikanae, the winners, in the six-man event, led by B. McLean.

The Gisborne Ladies' six.

Wainui and Waikanae teams hit the water in the surf ski race.

Wainui (foreground), Waikanae and Midway teams beaching in the surf ski race. Houlahan (nearest the camera) built up good lead, but had misfortune to lose his patient a moment after this picture was shot.
Carnival was first held at Wainui Beach for several years and served to boost interest in revival of club there this year. "Photo News" camera was packed avay too soon at the finish and missed what might have been the Picture of the Year—the trophies being presented by the Mayor, barechested and wearing shorts, in keeping with the warmth of the day and the informality of the occasion.

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 9 : March 31, 1955

Surf Carnival