Christian Surfers New Zealand (CSNZ) is a nationwide, faith-based movement dedicated to sharing the message of Jesus with surfers across Aotearoa. Founded in 1984, CSNZ seeks to connect the surfing community with the Christian faith through authentic relationships, community service, and a shared love of the ocean.(christiansurfers.org.nz)
CSNZ’s mission is to ensure that every surfer and surfing community in New Zealand has the opportunity to know and follow Jesus. They achieve this by fostering inclusive, gospel-centered communities that embody humility, integrity, and servant-heartedness. Their approach is adventurous and relational, meeting surfers where they are—on the beach and in the waves.
Local Missions: The heartbeat of CSNZ lies in its weekly local missions across the country. These gatherings are where friendships are formed, faith is nurtured, and the surfing community is strengthened.
Events & Camps: CSNZ hosts various events like the Jesus Classic Surf Comp, Young Adults Weekend, and the National Gathering. These events combine surfing, worship, and community building, providing opportunities for surfers to connect and grow in their faith.
CSALT Academy: The Christian Surfers Advanced Leadership Training (CSALT) Academy is a five-month live-in discipleship program based in Papamoa Beach. It offers young adults aged 18–24 a chance to deepen their faith, develop leadership skills, and engage in hands-on mission experiences, including surf road trips and community service projects .(CSALT)
CSNZ is committed to being gospel-centered, inclusive, servant-hearted and surfers. They celebrate diversity and aim to empower individuals to live out their faith authentically within the surfing community. By partnering with local churches, mission agencies, and surf organisations, CSNZ works collaboratively to bridge the gap between the beach and relationship with Jesus.
As part of the broader Christian Surfers International network, CSNZ contributes to a global movement active in over 37 countries. This international family shares a unified vision of reaching surfers worldwide with the message of Jesus, fostering a sense of global community among Christian surfers.
