Surf Lifesaving patrols commence over New Zealand’s Labour Weekend

Surf Life Saving New Zealand has advised that this Labour weekend marks the commencement of the 2023/24 patrol season with the predicted long, hot summer in northern parts of the country likely to see a high numbers of beachgoers.

With conditions being influenced by an established El Niño, combined with a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) Chief Executive, Steve Fisher is expecting a busy season ahead for surf lifeguards.

Calling the public to help their local Clubs to ensure everyone stays safe, Fisher advised “we want everyone to enjoy the beach with us. Our surf lifeguards across the country are a friendly, approachable presence.

“We’re there to keep you and your whanau safe, so we encourage beach goers to come and ask us questions, find out about the beach and water conditions for that day, hazards to watch out for, and what the tides are doing. Many of our patrolled beaches also have informative signs that display this key information, so we also encourage everyone to look out for these.”

SLSNZ has released its key beach safety messages for the 2023/24 season - based on incidents that have occurred over the last few seasons, Omnipoll research over the last three years and international research and safety messages.

Fisher adds “everyone knows the saying ‘swim between the flags’, but it’s still the best way to ensure you enjoy your time in the water safely.

“We’ve never had a drowning between the flags. Our volunteers are incredibly well prepared, trained and committed to supporting the public. Across the country, they have spent the winter months preparing their gear, refreshing their qualifications, and making sure they’re fit and ready to respond quickly and effectively.

“So, remember if you are heading to the beach, check (our website) to find a lifeguarded beach, and always swim between the red and yellow flags, which show the safest place to swim.”

Fisher urged the public to remain vigilant in and around the water, and emphasised the importance of people making safe decisions for themselves, their whānau and families, and their friends.

Image credit: Surf Life Saving New Zealand.