ABOUT
Dedicated to producing exceptional custom surfboards
Brad Buckle began his professional journey in the surfboard manufacturing industry back in 1994, working at one of New Zealand's prominent factories of that era.
Through dedicated immersion in the craft, he progressively mastered the techniques of board building, evolving into a true artisan of the trade. In the late 2000s, the tides of opportunity led Brad to Java, Indonesia, where he was beckoned to establish and oversee what would grow into one of the world's premier and high-volume surfboard production facilities.
Notably shaping and building for labels such as, Greg Webber, Lost, Rod Dahlberg, Annesley, Vampirate/Mark Gnech, Deathless, Free Flight/Phil Myers, Craig Hughes, Flow/ Mike Rommelse, Matt Hurworth, Luke Dorrington and many others.
Brad's mastery spans the manufacturing process. An accomplished artist with the paintbrush and airbrush, he imparts each board with a unique visual identity. As a glasser, he specialises in resin tints and marble effects, while his sanding finesse ensures that the intricacies of each shape translate through to the final product.
International shaping experience with global surfing brands
For over a decade, Brad wore the hats of both Head Shaper and Production Manager at this distinguished surfboard manufacturing company.
This dual role enabled him not only to craft designs that met the demands of surfers and global retailers but also to meticulously orchestrate and refine the entire production process.
His stewardship propelled the facility to deliver more than 40,000 surfboards, a testament to Brad's dedication to precision and his commitment to quality. With the factory also boasting an in-house foam plant, he directed the creation of 60,000 foam blanks, gaining an intimate understanding of every foundational material that breathes life into a surfboard — from the most fundamental raw components, to the final showroom product.
With most of his adult life to this point set against the backdrop of Indonesia's world-renowned waves and vibrant culture, Brad's shaping journey further gained depth from his connection to industry leading shapers and world-class surfers.
This exposure allowed him to live the dreams of many surfers, sharing waves and travels with the absolute elites of the sport—a feedback loop that enriched both his shaping and his surfing.
In 2022, Brad returned to his New Zealand origins, discovering a renewed calling in his cherished homeland. Against the stunning backdrop of Piha's West Coast, he redefined his focus, veering from the realm of large-scale production.
Now, he channels his expertise into meticulously crafting custom boards and offering a comprehensive suite of surfboard services to his extended local community, all from his state-of-the-art, modern factory.
