UP Surf Coaching

UP Surf Coaching is a surf school in Raglan, on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island, about two hours' drive from Auckland. Andrew Lucas started it in 2012 at Ngarunui Beach, to give beginners a proper progressive course rather than a one-off taster lesson.

Groups are kept deliberately small, with a maximum of six people. The flagship 'Become a Surfer' course runs over three days and takes students from whitewater to green waves, with surf forecasting, ocean safety and quality equipment included. Two-hour lessons, in small groups or privately, are also available, along with coaching for intermediate surfers (in-water and video analysis).

The school also runs surf camps and trips around New Zealand and overseas (Japan, Indonesia, Taiwan and the Maldives). Board and wetsuit are provided for lessons.

Regular three-day courses from October to May, usually Friday to Sunday; dates are listed on the booking form. Custom dates are available for groups.