AUCKLAND, New Zealand – Surfing New Zealand has officially announced the national team that will represent Aotearoa at the 2025 International Surfing Association (ISA) World Junior Surfing Championship.
The selected squad features a strong combination of returning international competitors and fresh talent, all under the age of 18. This prestigious event is considered a key stepping stone for young surfers aiming to reach elite levels such as the World Surf League (WSL) and the Olympic Games.
The ISA has yet to confirm the exact location and dates for the 2025 championship. However, anticipation is growing within New Zealand’s surf community, which sees the event as a pivotal moment in the careers of its next generation.
Experienced Core Returns
Several seasoned athletes return to the national team this year, bringing with them valuable international experience and leadership. Among them are:
- Alexis Owen (Dunedin)
- Tao Mouldey (Mount Maunganui)
- Benji Lowen (Mount Maunganui)
- Vitor Bauermann (Mount Maunganui)
Chloe Groube, Leia Millar, Poppy Arkle, Alani Morse, and Lola Groube — all of whom have previously represented New Zealand on the world stage.
“These returning athletes have proven themselves on the global level,” said Lee Ryan, National Teams Convenor. “They show maturity, composure, and a clear desire to build on past performances.”
Newcomers Ready to Impress
This year’s team also includes several first-time ISA competitors. Making their debuts are:
Jacob Haines and Luca Thompson, both from Raglan
Brissa Canina, who trains out of Coolum, Australia
“These new faces are ready to make their mark,” added Ryan. “They’ve shown strong performances domestically and are prepared to test themselves against the world’s best.”
Official 2025 New Zealand ISA World Junior Team
Boys Under-18
Alexis Owen – Dunedin
Jacob Haines – Raglan
Tao Mouldey – Mount Maunganui
Non-Travelling Reserve: Lewis Murphy – Dunedin
Boys Under-16
Benji Lowen – Mount Maunganui
Luca Thompson – Raglan
Vitor Bauermann – Mount Maunganui
Non-Travelling Reserve: Sol Fritchley – Mount Maunganui
Girls Under-18
Chloe Groube – Pauanui
Leia Millar – Auckland
Lola Groube – Pauanui
Non-Travelling Reserve: Sage Fritchley – Mount Maunganui
Girls Under-16
Alani Morse – Raglan
Brissa Canina – Coolum, Australia
Poppy Arkle – Piha
Reserve: Lola Groube – Pauanui
A Pathway to Global Success
The ISA World Junior Championships have historically launched the careers of elite surfers, including Olympic gold medallists and current WSL competitors. With surfing growing in global prominence ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, Surfing New Zealand views the event as a vital component of its high-performance strategy.
“These young athletes are more than surfers — they’re cultural ambassadors,” said Surfing New Zealand CEO Ben Kennings. “They represent the heart of Kiwi surfing and carry the values of resilience, humility, and dedication. Their selection is a proud moment for their families, communities, and the national program.”
The 2025 team is expected to begin intensive training in the coming months as they prepare to take on the world’s best junior surfers later in the year.