Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) will bring forward the start of the Tauranga Paid Lifeguard Service (PLS) by one week, with PLS patrols now commencing from Monday 1 December, and volunteer patrols to commence from Saturday 29 November. The decision comes in response to rapidly changing beach conditions and a significant rise in serious incidents already occurring along the coastline.

Unseasonably warm water, calm mornings, and high visitor numbers have created a perfect storm of hidden hazards. While the ocean may appear calm, shifting sandbars and draining channels are forming powerful rips that are difficult for the public to identify.

Avan Polo, Eastern Regional Manager for Surf Life Saving New Zealand, says the early activation is essential to protect the public.

“Despite the surface looking picture-perfect, we are seeing strong lateral flows and active rip channels forming beneath. These hidden risks are catching swimmers off guard, and we’ve already seen multiple serious incidents in the past few days alone, including one fatal drowning. Bringing the service forward will help save lives,” says Polo.

“Given the rising number of people heading to our beaches and the serious incidents already occurring, early coverage from surf lifeguards is both necessary and urgent. Our beaches are a treasured part of community life, and we want everyone to enjoy them safely.”

Yesterday alone, three rescues were performed at Tay Street and a tragic fatality occurred at Cross Roads despite the efforts of bystanders who entered the water in an attempted rescue. Surf lifeguards were also called out yesterday to another incident at Tay Street, requiring a Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) and Rescue Water Craft (jetski) response.

Under the accelerated plan, SLSNZ will deploy three mobile patrol teams every afternoon from Mount Maunganui to Papamoa. Each team will include two qualified lifeguards equipped with an ATV for rapid movement, a rescue board, and either an IRB or Rescue Water Craft, depending on conditions.

Tauranga Deputy Mayor and Mauao/Mount Maunganui Ward Councillor Jen Scoular says Tauranga City Council fully supports the decision to start the Paid Lifeguard Service early.

“The recent events highlight how quickly beach conditions can change, and our thoughts are with those affected by these incidents. Surf Life Saving New Zealand and our local clubs do vital work to keep people safe on our beaches, and our Council is committed to supporting this important service."

Avan Polo says the professional surf lifeguard service will begin immediately from Monday 1 December, with volunteer surf lifeguards to conduct their regular patrols over the weekend.

“We have the teams, the equipment, and the operational plan in place. With Council’s support, we can respond to a risk that is not theoretical or forecast—it is happening right now.”

Surf Life Saving New Zealand reminds the public that anyone who sees someone in difficulty in the water should call 111 and ask for Police.

© Scoop Media