Worser Bay is one of the oldest surf lifesaving clubs in New Zealand. It was formed in December 1910 at a public meeting in Seatoun, and the club says it was the third life saving club established in the country. The name comes from James Heberley, a pilot who lived on the bay in the 1860s and always said the weather was getting worser. The club is still on the beach at Marine Parade, Seatoun, on the Wellington side of the harbour entrance.
The club describes itself as family orientated and welcomes all ages. Activities include sea swimming, board training and surf competitions. Young members can join the Junior Surf Programme, which builds lifesaving and competition skills in a safe setting. Adults can train to become lifeguards, join a patrol, or gain further qualifications in IRB or first aid. Parents of Nippers are also welcome to gain their Surf Lifeguard Award.
The clubrooms have barbecues and social afternoons, and the club is open for hire all year round for weddings, meetings, community groups and dinner parties. Its Google rating is one of the stronger ones in the area, though it is not the highest.
Our pick in Seatoun for a family who want the beach, a barbecue and a bit of local history in one place.