Key Takeaways
- Surf Life Saving NZ is warning beachgoers to be aware of changes in beaches due to large weather events
- Raglan’s Ngarunui Beach has seen an increase in mass rescues due to changes in the beach
- Rips are a common danger for beachgoers in New Zealand, and can be exacerbated by severe weather
- Erosion is affecting beaches in the Waikato, Canterbury, and Bay of Plenty regions
- Lifeguards are taking extra precautions to monitor beach conditions and keep swimmers safe
Introduction to Beach Safety
Surf Life Saving NZ has issued a warning to people heading to the coast this summer to be aware of beaches that may have changed since their last visit. The organisation has stated that swimming conditions could be dangerous due to major changes caused by large weather events. This warning comes after multiple mass rescues have taken place at Raglan’s Ngarunui Beach, a popular spot for surfers and beachgoers. The beach has seen significant changes, making it more dangerous than it has been in previous years.
The Dangers of Rips
Rips are a common danger for beachgoers in New Zealand, and can be particularly hazardous for those who are not aware of the risks. A rip is a powerful current that forms when water from breaking waves seeks the path of least resistance to drain out to sea, producing a dangerous vacuum that can pull swimmers out. The depth and shape of the seafloor can affect the formation of rips, with deep seabed holes formed by severe weather creating a surplus of rips and consequently, a surplus of rescues. Raglan’s Ngarunui Beach has seen an increase in rips due to changes in the beach, making it a particularly hazardous spot for swimmers.
The Impact of Severe Weather on Beaches
Severe weather has had a significant impact on beaches in New Zealand, with erosion eating away at sand dunes at higher rates than in previous years. Raglan Surf Life Saving has faced the negative impacts of severe weather onshore, with erosion causing significant damage to the beach. The sand that is eroded from Raglan is then carried north and deposited onto Auckland’s west coast beaches, such as Piha and Muriwai. This has resulted in the closure of the beach patrol tower, with monitoring taking place from on the beach or from the club. Lifeguards are having to adapt to the changing conditions, with COREY Harvey stating that "what we do is we have our lifeguards up here on the tower, having the birds eye view, and we have lifeguards still on the beach, watching the flags and being in our swimmers are there".
Regional Erosion
Beaches in the Waikato, Canterbury, and Bay of Plenty regions are all experiencing similar erosion. The severe weather has caused significant damage to the coastline, with sand dunes being eroded at an alarming rate. This has resulted in the formation of deep seabed holes, which can create a surplus of rips and make the beaches more hazardous for swimmers. The erosion is not only affecting the beaches themselves but also the surrounding environment, with the sand that is eroded being carried away and deposited elsewhere. This can have significant impacts on the ecosystem and the environment, and highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and management of the coastline.
Lifeguard Precautions
Lifeguards are taking extra precautions to monitor beach conditions and keep swimmers safe. With the increase in rips and erosion, lifeguards are having to be more vigilant than ever before. They are using a combination of traditional methods, such as watching the flags and monitoring the beach from the tower, as well as new technologies to keep track of the changing conditions. This includes monitoring the weather and sea conditions, as well as using drones and other equipment to get a better view of the beach. By taking these precautions, lifeguards are able to respond quickly and effectively in the event of an emergency, and help to keep beachgoers safe.
