Surfing legend makes waves in Taranaki visit
Three-time world champion surfer Tom Curren has confirmed Taranaki’s reputation as one of New Zealand’s premier surfing spots.
The 53-year-old American, who was world surfing champion in 1985, 1986 and 1990, is touring the country with his friend Mark Arico and the pair couldn’t resist enjoying some waves at New Plymouth’s Back Beach on Sunday.
‘‘This area is known as one of the main premier surfing spots in New Zealand, as far as I know.’’
Curren, whose daughter LeeAnn surfed in Taranaki as a rookie in 2010, and whose son, Patrick, also visited a few years ago, said while the waves weren’t the biggest or best, the region lived up to its reputation.
‘‘It was three to four foot, nice conditions and there was some good shaped waves. From what they (locals) were saying it was just an average day but it was really fun.’’
The Californian’s presence at the beach caused a few waves. ‘‘I met a few of the older crew, they recognised me. They were really surprised I think.’’
Renowned surf photographer and coach Daisy Day said Curren was one of her heroes and it had been great to see him in the waves at her home patch.
‘‘He is one of the legends that I’ve looked up to,’’ Day said.
‘‘He can still surf, boy can he still surf.’’
Curren was also impressed with some of the homegrown talent that was on display, including 13-year-old Natasha Gouldsbury.
‘‘There are some really good local surfers around.’’
He was also impressed with the welcoming nature of Taranaki locals and the scenery.
Arico and Curren had spent a week exploring the waves in the South Island before making their way north.
‘‘It’s just kind of nice to get up, look at the map and then just sort of hit the road,’’ he said.