He recorded a standout domestic season in the past year, winning the surf race at the International Surf Rescue Challenge and claiming silver in the Iron and board race events.
Shivnan said representing New Zealand had always been a goal of his.
“To get to do it halfway across the world is a huge honour.”
Verryt also produced impressive results this season, claiming podium finishes in the swim, board race and Iron events at nationals.
She also won the under-19 double ski title and helped her teams complete a clean sweep of under-17 relay events.
Verryt, who is in her final year of high school serving as a sports prefect, said she was looking forward to testing herself against the world’s best.
“Going on to world champs will be a thrilling test, and I couldn’t be happier to be representing New Zealand.”
Surf Life Saving New Zealand high-performance manager Holly Fletcher said the squad earned the selection through consistent performances across the domestic season.
“Congratulations to everyone selected. This is an exciting milestone and a chance to experience international competition while continuing to grow as athletes and teammates.”
Fletcher said the future of New Zealand surf lifesaving was looking “incredibly strong”.
“We’re excited to see this group take the next step together.”
Shivnan and Verryt are among 12 athletes selected for the 2026 Junior Black Fins squad.
They will be joined by fellow Bay of Plenty representatives Natalie Peat of Pāpāmoa, who was named team coach, and John Bryant of Mount Maunganui, who will serve as team manager.
2026 Junior Black Fins squad:
Charlie Shivnan – Omanu
Charlize Duncan – Fitzroy
Charlotte Aburn – St Clair
Chris Callebaut – East End
Dylan Blanchard – Red Beach
Ella Sutton – Midway
India Vaughan – Mairangi Bay
Jack Rust – East End
Lucy Kinnear – Waimarama
Max Cave – East End
Ollie Harland – Lyall Bay
Olivia Verryt – Omanu
Junior Black Fins Support Team:
Arna Majstrović – Waikanae, campaign lead
Bjorn Battaerd – Red Beach, team coach
Natalie Peat – Pāpāmoa, team coach
Lauren Johnson – Red Beach, team coach
John Bryant – Mount Maunganui, team manager
Georgia Tucker – physiotherapist
Dr Theo Dorfling – campaign doctor