Surf Break Research

Part of eCoast, Surf Break Research focuses on understanding and protecting surf environments through coastal science, wave modelling, and community collaboration. Our work in the Surf Zone ensures coastal planning balances wave dynamics, ecology, and community needs, advancing surf science, coastal resilience, and community engagement.
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About eCoast Surf Break Research

Surf break Research combines scientific expertise with community insights to help protect surf breaks. By linking research, policy, and local knowledge, we provide evidence-based guidance for councils, developers, and coastal communities.

We are recognised as world leaders in surf science. Our team develops advanced wave and coastal models, technical studies, and case studies to support communities in understanding and managing surf breaks effectively.
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Key areas of focus:

• Coastal planning and management strategies – balancing development and environmental protection.
• Ecological monitoring and conservation – tracking coastal ecosystems to maintain healthy surf zones.
• Community engagement and education – working with locals to share knowledge and encourage stewardship.
• Wave modelling and surf zone dynamics – understanding how waves interact with the coastline.
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World-Leading Expertise in Surf Science: Ed Atkin & Dr Shaw Mead

At last year’s Norte Surf Fest in Northern Portugal, eCoast Environmental Scientist Ed Atkin shared how surfing shaped his life and career. While completing a Marine Science degree in Cornwall, a lecturer introduced him to a multi-purpose artificial reef proposal. The idea that you could take maths and physics and use it to create waves was fundamentally life-changing for Ed.

This moment set him on a path into coastal science. Ed began working alongside eCoast co-founder Dr Shaw Mead — a world leader in surf science. They built computer models and carried out technical studies focused on surf science. Over the years, they have worked on numerous case studies to help communities understand and manage their surf breaks.
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At eCoast we specialise in surf science and surf resource management. In New Zealand, eCoast provides independent technical expertise to support the safeguarding of surf breaks through the Surf Break Protection Society.
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Projects & Case Studies

Surf Break Research leads a variety of projects across New Zealand, from local surf break monitoring to large-scale coastal assessments. Our work is cross-linked from the eCoast Content Hub, making it easy to explore case studies and research outputs.
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Recent Projects

• Read our surf related publications here: https://www.ecoast.co.nz/publications
• Save the Waves – protecting surf ecosystems through global collaboration and Advocacy.
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Get Involved / Learn More

Surf Break Research works closely with local communities, councils, and environmental organisations to protect surf environments. Explore our resources, get involved, or find out how you can support resilient surf zones.

Learn more here: https://surfbreakresearch.org/