Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service has surged ahead of their competitors after the first day of the New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championships in New Brighton, Christchurch.

The annual event has been led by the eastern region team from early on, although other teams from around New Zealand are on a charge.

Gisborne's Waikanae SLSC currently sits in second place ahead of Hawke's Bay's Ocean Beach Kiwi SLSC who finished the day in third, with Waimairi SLSC from Christchurch and Auckland's Mairangi Bay SLSC rounding out the top five.

Event officials say it's a credit to the skill of lifeguards right around the country, with every region represented in the top five after the first day of the three-day event.

NZ Surf Life Saving Championships event manager Prue Younger says the first day was effectively perfect and is thrilled everyone seems to be thoroughly enjoying the event.

'Honestly, it has been the best start we could have imagined for the TSB Bank Surf Life Saving Championships. The weather and surf conditions have been ideal, the competitors have been fair but feisty and it's just been a really great atmosphere here.

'I also think having the nationals return here to the south island has attracted a great turnout from athletes and spectators which is always great for the sport and the local community too.”

Although Younger says she is excited for the next two days of action as the teams promise to fight back against the current leaders.

'The buzz around the beach has been that everyone wants this win and they're all going to push hard to close the gap to Mount Maunganui.

Racing continues today at the New Brighton Surf Life Saving Club on Marine Parade in Christchurch.

TOP FIVE CLUBS AFTER DAY ONE:

• Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service (39)
• Waikanae Surf Life Saving Club (35)
• Ocean Beach Kiwi Surf Life Saving Club (25)
• Waimairi Surf Life Saving Club (15)
• Mairangi Bay Surf Life Saving Club (14)

To view the full results visit: liveresults.co.nz/sls