Photo: Life supplied / Surf saving New Zealand
The surf that saves life in New Zealand is asking bathers to take extra care as the Summer Surf Surf Surfing patrols end the country.
The paid -life, which patrols beaches during the week from November to March, ended on Friday.
Surf volunteer rescues will continue to patrol beaches during weekends and public holidays to Easter.
The National Coastal Security Manager, Tom Kearny, said it was more critical than ever that swimmers carefully evaluate the conditions before entering the water.
“Most people who come across problems in the beach, on the beach, tend to overestimate their ability and underestimate conditions. They also tend not to have a very good understanding or concept of the risks involved and the dangers present, on the beach and in water,” he said.
“Between July 2023 and June 2024, 42 people lost their lives on our coast – each is a tragedy.
“While the surf saves from life ends for summer, we ask everyone to go to the beach just to check the conditions – when they get there, set aside a few minutes, make sure to understand what the water is doing. If they are in doubt, don’t get out.”
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