New Zealand Surf Lifeguards began beach patrols at Labour weekend but Lifeguards have also been doing their part to make sure children are prepared for the beaches.

Surf Life Saving New Zealandâ„¢s Beach Education programme has been in full swing throughout New Zealand for the last four weeks. During that time nearly 22,000 children have attended. A further 25,000 will attend in February when the new school year commences.

New Zealand Surf Lifeguards began beach patrols at Labour weekend but Lifeguards have also been doing their part to make sure children are prepared for the beaches.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand’s Beach Education programme has been in full swing throughout New Zealand for the last four weeks. During that time nearly 22,000 children have attended. A further 25,000 will attend in February when the new school year commences.

The programme is delivered by Surf Lifeguards at 30 surf life saving clubs around the country. Reaching primary school children from years one to eight it teaches children how to enjoy a fun and safe day at the beach.

A recent survey revealed over half the population visited the beach last summer.

“The nature of our country means most people live near our coastline. Even at our most inland point we are never more than a few hours drive to a beach”, says SLSNZ CEO Geoff Barry.

“Last summer Surf Lifeguards rescued 1,709 people on our beaches. 40% of those were aged under 18 years old.

Asked whether the programme was effective, Mr Barry replied “when you start to talk of nearly 40,000 children each year, then yes, it is a valuable part of our education programme. Over the last eleven years nearly 500,000 children have taken part.”