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Maz Quinn has a great view of the surf from his Gisborne home and most days makes the short trek to his local beach to get on his board. It’s a routine he’s had for decades. But following a life-changing incident last year, it’s not one he takes for granted.
The 47-year-old Kiwi surfing legend and reality TV star was enjoying a winter surf about 300m off shore at Māhia last June, when a powerful wave picked him up and dropped him onto a rocky ledge, straight onto his back and torso. As soon as it happened, Maz knew he was in trouble.
“I hit the bottom instantly andand contestant recalls. “I popped up out of the water and the pain was so intense, I knew I had done something bad. I took a couple of waves in the head and managed to get hold of my board.”