Our Story
Learn to ride. Learn to love it.
Meet Tai Mitchell
Salt & Sand was started in 2018 by Tai Mitchell after 10 years competing on the NZ surf circuit. He wanted to share the feeling — not just the technique — of catching your first wave. The school runs off the main beach at the Mount, with a shipping container HQ full of boards, wetsuits, and good vibes. The team of four instructors are all qualified lifeguards and surf coaches. Whether you're 8 or 68, they'll get you standing.
See Our LessonsThe Crew
Four qualified instructors. All lifeguards. All surfers.
Tai Mitchell
Head Coach & Founder
10 years on the NZ circuit
Jade Rawiri
Senior Instructor
Former surf lifesaving champ
Sam O'Brien
Surf Coach
Kids' camp specialist
Maia Chen
Surf Coach
Intermediate & progression
What We Stand For
Ocean respect runs through everything we do
Safety and fun in equal measure
Ocean respect and water safety
Everyone can surf — no exceptions