Surf Life Saving is calling on beachgoers to keep an eye on children, swim within the flags and to check conditions carefully. (File photo). Photo: RNZ/ Kim Baker Wilson
Lifeguards sprung into action to help 31 people to safety at Bethells Beach west of Auckland yesterday, while further north two missing children were found.
Surf Life Saving northern chief executive Matt Williams said challenging conditions at Bethells Beach yesterday kept lifeguards busy, with many swimmers suddenly finding they were being pulled out of their depth.
Lifeguards helped 31 people back to shore, including children, after they lost their footing in surging waves and found they were being swept away in the strong current.
Further north, lifeguards were called in to help when children went missing at the beach, at Waipū Cove and at Orewa.
A seven-year-old boy who had been with his family at Waipū Cove was found 3km away after they raised the alarm.
Williams said after he was found the boy said he had gone on a run to warm up.
And at Orewa, a grandmother raised the alarm after she lost sight of a child - who was later found outside the flags.
Williams said it was a reminder for parents taking children to the beach to keep a close eye on them at all time, to swim between the flags where it is safest and where lifeguards would be keeping watch, and to check beach conditions carefully to be aware of risks like strong currents and rips.
The government today issued a reminder to New Zealanders enjoying the summer to know their limits and keep safe in the water.
It has paid $63 million to fund Surf Life Saving and Coastguard services this summer.