Seal Beach lifeguard Samantha Hall shares insights from New Zealand exchange program

The Seal Beach City Council meeting on March 24, 2025, highlighted an exciting achievement in lifeguard training and international collaboration. Marine Safety Chief Bailey presented the Lifeguard New Zealand Exchange program, a prestigious initiative that has been fostering professional development since 1969. This year, Seal Beach's own Samantha Hall was selected to represent California in New Zealand, marking a significant honor for both her and the city.

Samantha, who is gearing up for her fifth summer as a lifeguard, shared her experiences from the exchange program. During her six-week stay, she learned about the unique challenges faced by lifeguards in New Zealand, where conditions are often more extreme and staffing is minimal compared to California. Unlike the tower system used in Seal Beach, New Zealand lifeguards utilize a flag system to guide swimmers to safer areas, adapting to the more dangerous surf conditions.

In her presentation, Samantha showcased photos from her trip and discussed the differences in lifeguarding techniques. She noted that while both regions share similar tools, such as jet skis and inflatable rescue boats, the reliance on these tools varies significantly due to the differing coastal environments. Samantha also highlighted the strong community spirit among lifeguards in New Zealand, where volunteer participation is common, fostering a sense of camaraderie that resonates with her own experiences in Seal Beach.

The council meeting underscored the importance of such exchanges in enhancing lifeguard skills and promoting safety at beaches. As Seal Beach continues to invest in its lifeguard program, the insights gained from international experiences like Samantha's are expected to enrich local practices and community safety efforts.