Easter weekend marks the last of summerâ„¢s beach patrols in New Zealand. For Surf Lifeguards the summer is officially over on Easter Monday.
“It has been a good summer with the number of rescues on beaches down this year compared to previous years, says Surf Life Saving New Zealand CEO, Geoff Barry. “Drowning numbers are also down this year and most of that can be placed on the increasingly proactive role that lifeguards are taking in the coastal environment and the larger role Surf Life Saving is playing in public education.
Easter weekend marks the last of summer’s beach patrols in New Zealand. For Surf Lifeguards the summer is officially over on Easter Monday.
“It has been a good summer with the number of rescues on beaches down this year compared to previous years, says Surf Life Saving New Zealand CEO, Geoff Barry. “Drowning numbers are also down this year and most of that can be placed on the increasingly proactive role that lifeguards are taking in the coastal environment and the larger role Surf Life Saving is playing in public education.
“During the Auckland Anniversary weekend 278 people were rescued around the country, said Barry. “Less people may go to the beach at this time of the year but winter swells can create strong surf conditions at the beach, particularly west coast beaches.
Since Labour weekend Surf Lifeguards have provided 156,000 hours of patrols throughout the country, more than ever before and a significant increase on the 135,000 hours of just six years ago.
“This year the number of people needing rescued is down nearly 15%. We’re doing greater patrol hours and preventative actions on our beaches than ever before and we are reaching more people through our public education programmes. The great news is the drowning toll is going down, says Barry.
Warm weather and big seas caused lifeguards to be especially busy over the summer holiday period this year, west coast beaches seemed to bear the brunt of the conditions with large swells in late December and January causing lifeguards to close beaches.
“As well as beach patrols we also invest significantly in school programmes and broader public education. It’s a simple message, swim between the flags, says Barry.