As extreme weather created difficult conditions at beaches across the country over the past week, Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) urged beachgoers to avoid coastlines. By Wednesday 21 January surf lifeguards in the northern and eastern regions of the North Island were putting their ‘no swimming’ warning signs out and were calling off their patrols.

Rough surf, strong currents and poor visibility made conditions unsafe for swimming and water activities In Northland, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and Gisborne. Surf lifesaving clubs were operating observational patrols but were on stand-by for incidents and were well-prepared to respond, with lifeguards urging the public to stay out of the water and follow all safety signage in place throughout the weekend.

While maintaining readiness across Auckland, surf lifeguards also supported response efforts in the Eastern regions, where local communities were affected by the landslips and rescue missions based in the Mount Maunganui. On Thursday 22 January at 4.00am SLSNZ’s Western Bay of Plenty Search & Rescue squad was activated alongside Fire and Emergency’s Swift Water Rescue Team (SWRT) to rescue 12 people who were trapped by fast moving flood waters in vehicles and at a house on Waitao Road in the Welcome Bay area of Papamoa. A crew of ten surf lifeguards was deployed to transport those people and two pets to safety through the flood using two IRBs, alongside two SWRT non-motorised rafts. 

Later that morning, the same Search & Rescue squad, alongside surf lifeguards from the Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service responded to the devastating slip at Mount Maunganui. After assisting with the initial response, teams were stood down so Police and FENZ could secure the area.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand GM - Lifesaving, Andy Kent, says the week highlighted the important role lifeguards play during severe weather events.

“While many people associate surf lifeguards with the beach, our teams are trained to support communities when severe weather impacts,” Kent says. “Throughout the week, lifeguards were monitoring conditions, assisting where required, and working to help keep people safe.”

“SLSNZ sends its condolences to all those who have been affected by the extreme weather, especially in the Bay of Plenty region, where several people have tragically lost their lives as a result of land slips. Surf Life Saving New Zealand acknowledges the devastating impact these events have had on families, friends and communities, and extends its thoughts to everyone grieving or dealing with the aftermath. Our surf lifeguards were among the first responders assisting emergency services in the affected areas, and we commend the coordinated efforts of all agencies working to support communities during this incredibly difficult time.”

Up to date information on surf lifesaving patrols and beach conditions is available on Safeswim.