Local Word

They say that web cams are to surfers what red is to a bull. Well, this probably couldn’t be truer in the Far North. A recent meeting of the North Country Boardriders Club in Ahipara attracted some 15 surfers who voiced their opinions about a number of issues but one issue in particular got them really speaking their minds. It seems that the concept of a ‘secret spot’ or an uncrowded session is fast disappearing with the advent of technology and forecasts, and, with the local ‘word’ being that live web cams were about to descend upon Ahipara and Shipwreck Bay, a good platform for a meeting was laid.

Whilst those present acknowledged that there was little they could do to legally oppose anyone setting up a web cam, they did want to make it known amongst the local and national surf scene that web cameras in any form would not be welcome in the area. Whilst some were prepared to do what was necessary to oppose web cams, the club moved a motion that they as a club oppose all web cameras focused on Shipwreck Bay and indeed Tauroa Point.

Organisers Mark Tan and Paul Hansen noted that it was good to see local surfers turn out in number whilst also noting 11 apologies from those unable to attend that night. The discussion was robust and frank and, in the end, the club was unanimous in its decision to oppose web cams.

No doubt technology will continue to improve and advance but in the meantime the local surfers of Ahipara are adamant that the Far North will be camera-free. Keep an eye out for t-shirts sporting: “No surf cams in Ahaps!”