United North Piha Lifeguard Service (UNPLS) was officially formed in 1973, through the amalgamation of two proud clubs: Eastern United and North Piha Surf Club.

North Piha Surf Club (1947–1973)

North Piha Surf Club was established in 1951 and proudly patrolled one of New Zealand’s most powerful beaches. Their club colours were green and white, and their logo featured a penguin, a fitting symbol for the West Coast conditions.

By the 1970s, North Piha faced challenges with low membership. In a bold move, they became the first Auckland club to admit women as active members, with a small group of pioneering women forming the backbone of patrols leading up to the amalgamation.

Eastern United Surf Club (1934–1970)

Eastern United began life as Browns Bay SLSC, founded by Alan Gardner in 1933. After expanding patrols to nearby Torbay, the club changed its name to Eastern United in 1934. The club was known for strong competition success in the 1950s and 60s, proudly wearing their yellow and blue colours, their cap was bright yellow with a blue stripe.

In the 1970s, Eastern United faced the loss of their clubrooms due to council changes. Although relocating to Muriwai was considered, the decision was made to merge with North Piha, ensuring both clubs' futures.

Amalgamation

In 1973, the two clubs officially joined forces, creating United North Piha Lifeguard Service. The merger solved Eastern United’s need for a new home and North Piha’s need for more members, bringing together a new generation of surf lifeguards.

Naming the new club took plenty of discussion, but "United North Piha" was eventually agreed upon. Although some members moved to other clubs like Piha and Muriwai during the change, UNPLS grew into a strong, competitive, and innovative club during the 1980s and beyond.

Today, our club colours remain a nod to our Eastern United roots: yellow and blue, with a quartered cap design.