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Salt Shack Surf School was founded by surf-loving siblings Holly and Jay Quinn — both world-class surfers and qualified Surfing New Zealand coaches. For the past five years, Salt Shack has been proudly teaching surfing right here in Gisborne! The school is led by Head Coaches Holly Quinn and Stella Smith, alongside an epic crew of local young rippers who bring serious energy to every session.
Check out our monthly schedule below, then jump over to the Bookings page to lock in your spot!
WEEKEND SURF LESSONS
LEARN TO SURF IN GISBORNE
Come and learn to surf on some of New Zealand’s best beaches! Gisborne offers incredible waves and ideal conditions for all levels of surfers — from complete beginners to those looking to improve their skills.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Join our fun small group lessons (just 4 surfers per coach) for 1 to 1.5 hours packed with all the gear you need! You’ll learn awesome surfing and paddling techniques, master how to stand up on a wave, and get clued up on essential water and beach safety—all in one action-packed session!
Lessons run twice every weekend. Private sessions are available for groups of 3 or more if the scheduled times don’t suit.
ADULT & KIDS GROUP LESSONS
When: Weekends
Who: Adults & Kids (Ages 6–16)
Cost: $60 per person (all-inclusive)
Note: Prices may vary throughout the season and in local programs.
BOOK YOUR LESSON
Bookings can be made via the Booking tab in our website menu.
Note: If there is no swell on the day, you’ll be credited for another session.
REMEMBER:
If you can swim, you can surf.
TERM 4- KIDS 2025
Next sign ups November 3rd
Intake 2: Mondays/Tuesdays/thursdays
Surfing Program for Kids & Teens (Ages 7–14)
Whether your child is new to surfing or looking to improve their skills, our 3-week surf program offers a fun, safe, and educational experience led by qualified Surfing Instructors.
• All surfing equipment provided
• Designed for children and teens aged 7–14
• Suitable for complete beginners to intermediate surfers
• Two session levels available: Beginners & Progressing
Session Details
Duration: 3 weeks
Location: Town Beach or Makorori
Payment: Full payment and registration required before sessions begin
If you can't commit to weekly sessions, weekend-only options are available.
Beginner Sessions
Learning to surf is a fantastic way to build ocean confidence and develop a lifelong passion for the sea. These sessions are ideal for those who are new to surfing.
Join our fun small group lessons (just 4 surfers per coach) for 1 to 1.5 hours packed with all the gear you need! You’ll learn awesome surfing and paddling techniques, master how to stand up on a wave, and get clued up on essential water and beach safety—all in one action-packed session!. Pre-booked times are required at sign-up.
Progressing Sessions
These sessions are perfect for young surfers who can already catch white water and stand up confidently. Take your surfing to the next level with expert guidance.
What you will learn:
You’ll learn how to read and select waves, catch those perfect unbroken (green) waves, trim and turn smoothly across the face, and boost your overall technique and ocean awareness to surf confidently by yourself.
Pre-booked times are required at sign-up.
Spaces are limited – book early to avoid disappointment.
LADIES WEEKDAY MORNINGS
Book now via the Bookings tab in the menu.
LADIES SESSIONS – MONDAYS AT 9AM
These sessions focus on building water confidence, refining surf technique, and developing the skills to surf independently. Designed for returning and new Salt Shack surfers, these sessions are perfect for those looking to take their surfing to the next level.
When: Mondays at 9:00 AM
Duration: 3-week block
Cost: $110 (total for all 3 sessions)
Group size: Limited to 8 participants
Note: Bookings for all 3 sessions are essential.
Book via the Bookings tab.
