Two people were rescued by surf lifeguards over the weekend. In Omanu (Mount Maunganui, Tauranga) a young girl was rescued when she floated out of her depth on her inflatable, while in Ōpunake a swimmer was rescued in the trail race rip.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) Eastern Regional Manager Avan Polo cautioned that while inflatable kayaks, dinghies, and pool toys might be convenient, lightweight, and fun they also come with risk.

“As we saw over the weekend, strong currents and winds can easily blow them out to sea, where you can quickly find yourself out of your depth and far away from shore.

“Even on the calmest beaches, using inflatable pool toys could be dangerous if an offshore breeze sweeps you or your children out to sea very quickly.”

Avan acknowledged teenage lifeguard Mitchell Bishop-Everett (15) who was involved in the rescue.

“If you find yourself swept out of your depth on an inflatable you should try to stay calm,” said Avan.

“Stay on the inflatable and signal for help by putting your hand up to attract attention from lifeguards, surfers or someone on the beach who can get help.”

During the weekend, volunteer lifeguards across New Zealand took 262 preventative actions involving 6182 people.

Today the Paid Lifeguard Service starts at Bethells Beach and Raglan. North Piha starts on Monday 2 December, and Ōrewa, Karekare, and Kariaotahi from Monday 9 December.