events. Patrol Advocates Patrol Advocates work with clubs throughout the season to ensure they are meeting the expected minimum standards set down by Surf Life Saving New Zealand. Patrol Advocates are a liaison point for clubs who need assistance from Northern Region for equipment, training and information. Prior to 2020, Patrol Advocates were known as Patrol Auditors. The name was changed following a membership review which recommended a more constructive approach to the auditing process. Paid Lifeguard Service The Northern Region Paid Lifeguard Service runs from the first week of December to the first week of March and is managed by the Paid Lifeguard Supervisor. Over the peak season four Seasonal Paid Lifeguard Supervisors assist in the management and training of PLS lifeguards, with each covering a different section of the region: Northland, East Coast Auckland, West Coast Auckland and Waikato. While volunteer lifeguards patrol most weekends during the summer, the Paid Lifeguard Service patrol weekdays and some public holidays such as Christmas and New Years. Paid lifeguards also work on weekends at locations not patrolled by volunteers such as on Auckland's East Coast. The Paid Lifeguard Service employs around 100 lifeguards in seasonal roles stationed at 22 locations around the region. Prerequisites include a high level of fitness, good lifesaving knowledge and current qualifications in First Aid, IRB crewing and a NZ recognised drivers license - restricted or higher. Community Education Northern Region's Community Education programme provides water-and beach safety education in Northland, Auckland and Waikato. It is managed by Northern Region's Community Education Manager. Beach Education Beach Education is a practical and theoretical programme run by Surf Life Saving instructors at beaches throughout the region. It teaches young people how to be safe near and in the water, and what to do if anything goes wrong. Surf to School Surf Lifeguard Instructors bring the Surf to School trailer into schools around the region and deliver water and beach safety messages through interactive presentations and activities. Schools are able to book sessions through the Surf Life Saving Northern Region website City Nippers An Auckland-based course designed to build children's confidence in the water and at the beach. The courses consist of five two-hour sessions delivered by Surf Life Saving instructors. Search and Rescue Services Northern Region's Search and Rescue services are designed to support and enhance lifesaving activity on the beaches and are managed by the Search and Rescue