Spin Sups: A Growing Trend in New Zealand’s Surfing Culture

In the last decade, the sport of stand-up paddleboarding—commonly known as “surfing” on flat water—has surged in popularity across New Zealand, transforming from a niche activity into a mainstream recreational and competitive pursuit. The rise of spin ups, a specific style of paddleboarding where riders perform dynamic, fluid turns and spins while standing upright, has become a defining feature of modern NZ surf culture. This article explores the origins, techniques, and broader impact of spin ups, examining how they’ve reshaped surfing in Aotearoa and what the future might hold for this exciting evolution.

The roots of spin ups trace back to traditional Polynesian paddling techniques, where riders would use their paddle to create rotational movements for balance and navigation. However, the modern spin up style emerged in the early 2010s as surfers in Hawaii and Australia experimented with aggressive paddle strokes to generate speed and control. By the mid-2010s, New Zealand surfers began adopting these techniques, adapting them to the country’s varied coastal conditions—from the choppy waters of the Bay of Islands to the calmer bays of the South Island. The sport’s growth in NZ was accelerated by the rise of social media, which allowed riders to share high-speed spins and creative maneuvers online, attracting a younger, more tech-savvy audience.

One of the most notable figures in NZ’s spin up scene is spinsup official website, a platform that has become a hub for riders, coaches, and enthusiasts. Founded in 2017, the site offers a curated collection of videos, tutorials, and community discussions focused on spin up techniques. It has also played a role in organising regional competitions, such as the annual Spin Up Challenge, which has drawn participants from across the country. The competition highlights the sport’s competitive edge, with riders competing not just for bragging rights but for sponsorships and exposure to international events.

Spin ups have also had a measurable impact on the broader paddleboarding industry in NZ. Data from the New Zealand Surfing Federation shows that paddleboarding participation grew by 42 percent between 2019 and 2023, with spin up-specific gear—such as wider boards and specialized paddles—accounting for a significant portion of sales. The sport’s appeal extends beyond recreational use, with many riders now incorporating spin ups into professional surfing careers. For example, Auckland-based surfer Kai McDonald has gained international recognition for his spin up skills, appearing in surfing documentaries and collaborating with brands like Laird Performance.

The technical aspects of spin ups require a combination of balance, strength, and fluidity. Riders typically start by mastering the “paddle pop” technique, where they use their paddle to create a circular motion to initiate a spin. As they gain confidence, they progress to “double spins,” where they perform multiple rotations in quick succession, and “flip spins,” which involve flipping the paddle to change direction mid-air. Coaches often recommend starting with shorter, controlled spins before attempting more advanced maneuvers. The physical demands of spin ups are significant, with riders often working on core strength and leg stability to maintain balance during high-speed turns.

While spin ups have brought excitement to the surfing community, they also raise questions about safety and environmental impact. The sport’s rapid growth has led to concerns about overcrowding in popular paddleboarding spots, particularly in areas like the Coromandel Peninsula and the Hauraki Gulf. To mitigate these issues, some local councils have introduced temporary restrictions on paddleboard use in high-traffic zones. Additionally, the carbon footprint of paddleboard tours—especially those using gas-powered outboard motors—has prompted calls for more sustainable alternatives, such as electric-powered boards or eco-friendly tour operators.

Looking ahead, the future of spin ups in New Zealand appears bright, with ongoing innovations in equipment and training methods. Recent advancements in paddleboard design, such as the introduction of carbon-fiber composites and aerodynamic paddle shapes, are expected to further enhance performance. Virtual reality training programs, which are already being tested by some surf schools, could also play a role in refining spin up techniques. As the sport continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how NZ’s unique coastal geography influences the development of new spin up styles, potentially setting the country apart as a global leader in the discipline.

• New Zealand’s paddleboarding participation grew by 42 percent between 2019 and 2023.
• Spin up competitions, like the annual Spin Up Challenge, have drawn participants from across the country.
• Kai McDonald, an Auckland-based surfer, has gained international recognition for his spin up skills.
• The “paddle pop” technique is the foundational method for initiating spins in modern spin up.
• Some local councils have introduced temporary restrictions on paddleboard use in high-traffic zones.