The Rodney region is blessed with some of the best beaches in the country. From the amazing surf at Pakiri to the calmer waters of the Mahurangi harbour, you can find the perfect beach to spend the day.

A day at the beach may be a great way to relax and have a bit of fun, but it's still important to remember the real dangers the ocean presents. New Zealand has one of the highest fatal drowning rates in the world. In 2019, there were 82 preventable drowning fatalities and 203 drowning related hospitalisations that left families and communities devastated. 

Surf Life Saving New Zealand works hard on our beaches to ensure that everyone stays safe and avoids situations that could lead to tragedy. They have 74 clubs around New Zealand, with patrols at Omaha and Pakiri during the busy summer months. 

Knowing important water safety tips can hopefully eliminate situations drastic enough to require the help of lifeguards. On patrolled beaches, the flags are there for a very good reason. Lifeguards carefully assess the conditions each day and move the flags as the conditions change. Between the flags is the safest place to swim, and as they are always under the watchful eyes of the lifeguards, they can respond immediately if anything were to happen. 

Knowing how to spot a rip, and what to do if you get caught in one can save your life. Remember, green is mean. A clear sign of a rip is a stretch of calm water with waves breaking around it, but don’t be deceived. 

If the sand underfoot feels rippled or you can feel small holes beneath your feet in the water, it could be caused by a rip current pulling layers of sand out to sea, so be wary. Discoloured or foamy water may also be an indicator of the current churning up sand below the surface.

Rips can be permanent, or they can happen in a flash. It's good to know what to do if you find yourself caught in one, even if you are confident that you can spot them. Although the first instinct may be to swim your way back to shore, don’t. 

Swimming against the current will quickly drain your energy, making you much more vulnerable. Stay calm, float, and let the current take you. Raise your hand to signal to the lifeguards, or anyone nearby, that you need help. The rip will weaken eventually allowing you to swim back to safety. 

Stay safe in the water this summer.