03/05/2026
Mangawhai Heads VLS Marks New Chapter with Official Clubhouse Reopening
On Saturday, 2nd May, the Mangawhai community gathered to celebrate a landmark occasion: the official reopening of the Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service Inc. (MHVLS) Clubhouse. With over 100 people in attendance, the event marked the end of a challenging three-year journey and the beginning of a vibrant new chapter for the club.
The ceremony began with a procession led by Te Uri O Hau kaitiaki Albert Shelford, who opened the proceedings with a karakia. Following this, MHVLS Club Chair Jess Costello and Northland MP Grant McCallum cut the ribbon, officially welcoming members and the community back into the clubhouse for the first time since 2023. The facility and the surrounding headland had been closed after severe damage from a landslide during the Auckland Anniversary Floods.
MHVLS President Alex Tidyman reflected on the immense perseverance required to reach this milestone. He emphasised that the reopening is a testament to the club’s core values of Service, Vigilance, and Endurance. Tidyman expressed deep gratitude to the community for their unwavering support throughout the recovery process.
Northland MP Grant McCallum echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of the club’s leadership and the collaborative financial support provided by both Central Government and Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ).
The ceremony also underscored the strong bond between the club and mana whenua. Te Uri O Hau Chief Executive, Rhys Manukau, spoke about the area's history and the connection between Te Uri O Hau and the MHVLS. He acknowledged the club's respect and manaakitanga in working alongside the Iwi, particularly in the efforts to preserve Te Pa o Te Manga Te Whai. He was joined by representatives from the Environs Holding team, whom the club thanked for their ongoing aroha and support.
KDC Mayor Jonathan Larsen expressed his pleasure at seeing the MHVLS team back in their home and shared his optimism for future development plans for the Mangawhai Heads Reserve.
SLSNZ Board Chair Kelvyn Eglinton attended the event alongside representatives from both SLSNZ and Surf Life Saving Northern Region (SLSNR). Eglinton praised the dedication required to repair the facility behind the scenes and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the club's growth as it continues to serve the Mangawhai community.
In her closing remarks, Club Chair Jess Costello highlighted the day's emotional significance, noting that the clubhouse is more than just a building.
"This is a place of mauri, holding the lifeforce of our members," said Costello. "It is a place where we connect—to one another, to the ocean, and to our shared duty of serving Mangawhai.
This has been a heavy road for the Board and Committee, but the support we have received from our Stakeholders, Surf Lifesaving Partners, Surf club members, and the wider community has been our strength."
Following the speeches, the community shared in a celebratory meal to mark the facility’s return to service. On behalf of the entire MHVLS team, the club extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who attended and contributed to this historic day.
