INTRODUCING.. Libby Rose Reilly

TE PUIA SURF CO. & WAVE RYDERS COROMANDEL

Kia ora, I’m Libby! I’m 35 and living in Hahei now, though I’m originally from Kuaotunu. The Coromandel has always been home, and the ocean here is a huge part of my life. 

I first learned to surf at 13 - my best surf memory. My dad taught me right here in the Coromandel, and I still remember my very first wave — it’s even written down in a short story at my dad’s house. From that very moment, I was hooked.

Surfing has been a part of my life ever since. Now, I own Te Puia Surf Co, Wave Ryders Coromandel, and Swim Safe Coromandel. We provide Surf Lessons in the Coromandel at Hot Water Beach and Pauanui.

It all started with me teaching friends so more girls would feel comfortable surfing with me, and from there, I discovered the joy of helping others. Looking forward, I want to expand into more comprehensive surf programs, with video coaching and analysis to help surfers progress further. At the heart of it all are happy staff and happy customers — because I believe good energy in the water matters most. 

My kaupapa is simple: create a fun, safe, and supportive environment where everyone can feel confident in the water. There is something special about watching people learning new skills and realising what they’re capable of once they get out there!

As a mum and while juggling business's, nothing beats sharing waves, laughter, and ocean time with my children. 

Women's professional surfing continues to inspire me — I follow so many epic female surfers on Instagram, and love seeing how many strong wahine are out there representing and pushing limits.

These days, my personal surfing goals are about pushing myself: surfing bigger waves, getting into barrels consistently, and most importantly, finding less fear and more flow.

Being in the ocean gives me purpose, joy, and endless opportunity to keep learning.