Key Takeaways
- Surf lifeguards in the eastern region of New Zealand rescued 25 people on the first day of the new year
- The rescues were due to a combination of factors, including hot weather, large holiday crowds, and strong currents
- Surf lifeguards are emphasizing the importance of swimming between the flagged area, where the risk of accidents is lowest
- Beachgoers are encouraged to check conditions before heading to the beach using the Safe Swim website
- Surf lifeguards will continue to adapt patrol areas as conditions change throughout the summer
Introduction to the Incident
The first day of the new year was a busy one for surf lifeguards in the eastern region of New Zealand, with 25 people rescued across the region’s beaches. The eastern region, which includes the Bay of Plenty, the Coromandel, and the Tairāwhiti Gisborne region, was attracting large holiday crowds amid hot weather, creating a significant amount of work for surf lifeguards. According to Surf Lifesaving New Zealand northern region general manager Zac Franich, the large crowds and hot weather were contributing factors to the high number of rescues.
The Importance of Swimming Between the Flags
Franich emphasized the importance of swimming between the flagged area, which is positioned by lifeguards based on continuous assessment of the conditions. He stated that even if the water looks safe on the surface, rips and strong currents can develop very quickly. By swimming between the flags, beachgoers are choosing the area with the lowest risk and are under the watch of trained surf lifeguards, who can respond immediately if something goes wrong. Once you move outside that zone, the risk increases significantly, Franich warned.
Rescues and Incidents
Several rescues and incidents were reported on New Year’s Day, including a mass rescue of six people who were caught in a rip on the east side of Mussel Rock in Mount Maunganui. Five people were transported to the surf club for further medical assessment, and one patient was treated for a suspected head injury. In Pāpāmoa, surf lifeguards rescued four people who were in distress and yelling for help from the water. Two people required first aid and oxygen, while the other two did not require further medical attention.
Other Incidents and Rescues
In the Coromandel, surf lifeguards at Whangamatā rescued six people from a rip, with two patients receiving first aid before being released from care. Another three people were rescued after becoming stranded on a rock near Donut Island, with two being returned to the beach in an inflatable rescue boat. A 50-year-old woman was pulled from the water in Whangamatā by a member of the public and was administered first aid by surf lifeguards before being transported to hospital. In Maketū, surf lifeguards responded to two people caught in a rip, but were stood down after the pair were located safe and well.
Peak Holiday Crowds and Pressure on Patrol Teams
The high volume of rescues and incidents during the New Year period reflects the pressure peak holiday crowds place on patrol teams. Beaches with large visitor numbers, particularly during the afternoon, require repeated lifeguard interventions as conditions evolve. Franich said that the trend reinforces a message surf lifeguards deliver every summer, but one that is especially critical during the holiday period. He emphasized that most serious incidents happen where lifeguards can’t actively manage the risk to people, and that swimming between the flags is the safest place to be.
Conclusion and Advice
Surf lifeguards will continue to adapt patrol areas as conditions change throughout the summer, and are encouraging beachgoers to check conditions before heading to the beach using the Safe Swim website. The website shows whether a beach is patrolled, highlights conditions, and notes any hazards present on the day. By taking these precautions and swimming between the flags, beachgoers can minimize their risk of accident and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at the beach. As Franich stated, the message remains the same: the safest place to swim is always between the red and yellow flags.