Blue Light Fishing Training Program Reels In Success After Weather Delay

Blue Light Fishing Training Program Reels In Success After Weather Delay

A postponed Blue Light Fishing Training Program finally went ahead last week, running Tuesday and Wednesday, 14–15 July 2026, with ideal weather and outstanding results.

Fourteen youth aged 11 to 13 from Wellsford and Tomarata schools took part in the two-day program, which was sponsored by the now-completed Rodney Youth Project Small Project Fund. The event was free to attend thanks to funding from the Rodney Local Board, along with extensive community and volunteer support.

Participants were taken out for the day on a fishing charter departing from Marsden Bay, where every student successfully brought home fish. Alongside the hands-on fishing experience, the youth were taught essential water safety skills and practical fishing techniques, including knot and hook-sinker tying and surf casting.

The program drew on the generosity of a wide range of community partners, including Mangawhai Coastguard, NZ Fisheries, members of the Mangawhai Boating and Fishing Club, fishing writer and tour guide Grant Dixon, Blue Light volunteers, and the Wellsford Rapid Response team. Organisers extended special thanks to Shane Gould and North Rodney Blue Light Ventures Inc. for making the experience possible.

Parents of participants praised the initiative. One mother, whose son attended with his friend, said both boys described the trip as “incredible” and “amazing,” and that they hadn’t stopped talking about the opportunity since. She said she was pleased to see it well supported by the Rodney Local Board and other sponsors, adding that she hoped more young people could be given the chance to get out on the water in future.

We say the program highlights the value of community partnerships in giving local rangatahi access to new skills and unforgettable experiences on the water. Our Community Facilitator in Wellsford, Kiri Eriwata is exploring opportunities to support a second programme. 

Email her if you are interested: kiri@rodneycommunity.org.nz