WORKSHOP & EXERCISES

Swiftwater and flood response personnel will converge onto Vector Wero to be provided continuing professional development and participate in a range of flood response scenarios.

Saturday 29 - 30 November 2025
Wero Whitewater Park, Great South Road, Manukau, Auckland

Up to 100 swiftwater responders and rescue technicians converge for the largest flood rescue workshop and exercise in New Zealand history.

Following an initial swim competency test, the weekend is compromised of mixed cross-agency teams to build pre-event relations across various skill stations.

Swiftwater Technicians also complete pre-event online learning so they can be awarded swiftwater vehicle rescue (SRTV®) certification upon completion of workshop activities. 

A wide range of skills will be covered across more than 12 skill stations to introduce new techniques as well as refresh baseline skills at the participants respective qualification level, including vehicle rescue, decontamination, roof access, advanced swimming, and more.

The Saturday evening includes a networking BBQ as well as an opportunity to practice skills at night time.

A values-based team challenge activity and debrief on the Sunday completes the workshop prior to an awards ceremony. 

Skill stations may include:

  • Vehicle rescue using wading and sled methods
  • Shore-based vehicle stabilisation
  • Decontamination
  • Advanced throw bag methods
  • Reach pole systems
  • Advanced contact rescue for vehicle operations*
  • Paddle boat handing (Grade 2)
  • Paddle boat handling (Grade 3)*
  • Advanced swimming (> Grade 3)*
  • Advanced cinches
  • Inflatable fire hose
  • Roof access and entry
  • Spinal management
  • Vehicle glass breaching and management
  • EV familiarisation
NB: Skill stations subject to change. 
* for technician level participants only. 

Target Audience

Swiftwater operators and technicians from:

  • New Zealand Response Teams
  • Fire & Emergency New Zealand
  • Coastguard New Zealand
  • Surf Lifesaving New Zealand
  • Australian Emergency Services Organisations (SES/Fire/Rescue)
  • Other invited emergency response teams
  • Defence Force
  • Air Rescue Services
  • Police SAR
Logistics

Registration for this workshop is for invited teams. Observers are permitted where approved prior by conference organisers. Attendees agree that photographic or video footage may be recorded and used in related marketing including social media and news releases. 

Teams are responsible for all travel, accommodation, and other related costs. Packed lunches are provided both days to participants and a BBQ dinner is supplied for the Saturday night. No other meals or refreshments are supplied.

Teams must ensure their participating members have suitable PPE and hold a valid swiftwater responder or technician certification and upload to the specified online form prior to acceptance. 

PUASAR002 Recognition of Prior Learning Access

Those who complete SRTV® requirements, may also be eligible for Recognition of Learning by Group 314 for the Australian Public Safety Competencies PUASAR001 and PUASAR002 (additional fee applies). Learn more.