Surfing New Zealand has revealed a fresh, youthful squad for the 2025 New Zealand Open Surfing Team, selected to represent the country at the prestigious ISA World Surfing Games in El Salvador from 5–14 September 2025.
This year’s team marks a significant step forward for New Zealand surfing, with a roster brimming with young talent ready to compete against the best in the world. The majority of the team members are in their teens or early twenties, showcasing a new generation of surfers poised for international success.
The games will take place at two of Central America’s most iconic surf spots—La Bocana and El Sunzal—where the team will compete against a global field of athletes. New Zealand’s six-member team will represent the nation with pride and determination, further solidifying the country’s growing reputation in the sport.
2025 New Zealand Open Surfing Team:
Open Men:
Theo Morse (Raglan)
Will Hardie (Piha)
Christian Fougere (Piha)
Open Women:
Ava Henderson (Christchurch)
Alani Morse (Raglan)
Lola Groube (Pauanui)
Surfing New Zealand’s team selection for the 2025 event is one of the youngest in the organization’s history at the ISA World Surfing Games. This not only reflects the strength of New Zealand’s junior development program but also highlights the rapid rise of these athletes in both national and international competitions.
A New Generation of Surfing Talent
Theo Morse, who will compete in the senior division for the first time, is already regarded as one of New Zealand’s top surfers. The Raglan-based natural-footer has impressed on the international stage with his polished style and smooth rail work. He is expected to thrive in the long, peeling point breaks of El Salvador.
Will Hardie, from Piha, brings a combination of explosive energy and tactical maturity that belies his age. Hardie has been a consistent presence on the national podium and is now ready to make his mark on the global stage, thanks to his strong heat awareness and powerful surfing.
Christian Fougere, also hailing from Piha, has made a name for himself with his aggressive vertical style and precise wave reading. The young surfer is expected to bring his innovative approach to the global stage at El Salvador.
On the women’s side, Ava Henderson continues to lead the way for New Zealand’s rising surf stars. A former ISA World Junior Champion, Henderson has already built an impressive international resume. Known for her high-performance style and competitive grit, she is one of New Zealand’s top medal prospects at the event.
Alani Morse, Theo’s sister and another rising talent from Raglan, joins the team after a standout season in national competitions. With her powerful surfing, aerial game, and strong fundamentals, Morse has become one of the most promising young surfers in the country.
Lola Groube from Pauanui completes the women’s team. Groube’s fearless approach and impeccable technique have made her a standout in New Zealand’s surfing scene, and she brings raw energy and potential to the team.
Building for the Future of Surfing in New Zealand
The 2025 squad’s selection underscores a shift in New Zealand’s approach to the sport, reflecting a long-term vision of building for the future. Despite being a relatively young team, New Zealand’s history at the ISA World Surfing Games is filled with pride and tradition, having competed in the event since the 1960s.
In the 2024 ISA World Surfing Games in Puerto Rico, New Zealand placed 18th out of over 50 countries. With this year’s youthful team, the focus is on climbing higher in the rankings while gaining invaluable exposure on the global stage.
Ben Kennings, CEO of Surfing New Zealand, emphasized the significance of the team’s youthful energy. “This is one of the youngest Open teams we’ve selected in recent history,” Kennings said. “It’s exciting to see such a talented group of young athletes stepping up. They’ve earned their places, and now they have the opportunity to compete against the world’s best. This team isn’t just about 2025—it’s about building for the future of New Zealand surfing.”
Global Significance of the ISA World Surfing Games
Although the 2025 ISA World Surfing Games will not count toward Olympic qualification, it remains a crucial event for global rankings and athlete development, especially in the lead-up to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
The ISA World Surfing Games has become the premier team surfing competition worldwide, offering surfers invaluable international experience and exposure. This year’s event is expected to bring even greater focus on the sport, following surfing’s Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020 and its upcoming return at Paris 2024 (hosted at Teahupo’o, Tahiti).
About the International Surfing Association (ISA)
Founded in 1964, the International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the global governing body for surfing, bodyboarding, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding), and surfriding. The ISA has been organizing world championships since its inception and is responsible for the ISA World Junior Championships since 1980.