In a tribute on Facebook, the club wrote of the “massively talented” surfer’s lasting impact on the organisation and the wider surfing scene.
Troy Hirst had an outsized impact on the close-knit West Auckland surf community. Photo / Al Ashworth
“Troy left an indelible mark on Māori Bay and the Muriwai community as well as surfing in NZ and abroad.
“He influenced many of the up-and-coming groms at the Bay back in the day who looked up to him as he pushed the bar constantly and pushed them to become better surfers.”
The club described Hirst as “a massively talented surfer” who achieved legendary status in heavy barrelling waves, particularly at his spiritual home of Lakey Peak.
“He was someone who was never afraid to hit the lip hard or pull in to giant caverns.”
Troy Hirst has been remembered by the New Zealand surfing community for his contributions to the scene. Photo / Al Ashworth
Friend Al Ashworth also paid tribute to Hirst, whom he met in 1990 after moving to Muriwai.
“Troy gravitated to my place hanging out as a young teenager grom, in fact he became part of my furniture after school.”
He said while Hirst “had a bit of an attitude at times”, that competitive streak was what gave him an edge over his rivals.
“I will always treasure my shots of Troy and my memories which I hold dear to my heart. I watched him grow into an amazing human and I will miss him dearly.”
Others shared their grief in the comments, describing Hirst as “a true character” and “a smiling assassin” who would be deeply missed.
The Māori Bay Board Riders Club said Hirst’s “greatest achievement” was “being a loving son, brother, father and husband as well as a great friend to many”.
He leaves behind his parents Paula and Richard, siblings Brodie, Ryan and Cooper, wife Yuni, and his children Westen and Mikayla.