Apprentice mechanic becomes lifeguard after Waihī Beach volunteer call-out

A national volunteer recruitment campaign by Surf Lifesaving New Zealand has delivered an unexpected win for Waihī Beach Lifeguard Services, connecting the club with an apprentice mechanic who has since qualified as a surf lifeguard. Meg Taitoko spotted the campaign after moving to Waihī Beach for work at Waihī Beach Automotive and reached out, despite having no surf lifesaving background.

Taitoko initially contributed her mechanical skills, and her work has reportedly saved the club more than $1000 that can now go directly towards first aid supplies, emergency gear and lifeguard training. From there, she went on to train and qualify as a surf lifeguard, becoming part of the club's whānau in the process.

Membership director Natalie Lloyd said the club is always on the lookout for volunteers across a wide range of roles — from gear checks and equipment maintenance to events support, fundraising and communications — and that every skill and contribution strengthens the club.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).