The Waimakariri District Council has boosted its funding to Surf Life Saving New Zealand by one-third, adding $41,502 to the budget, with $120,690 set aside to provide lifeguards patrolling the beaches for 110 days this season - up from 99 days last year.
Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon said it was an important investment for the council.
‘‘This funding is a commitment to community wellbeing. We’ve listened to the community and acted.
‘‘More patrol hours mean fewer risks and faster responses if and when incidents occur.’’
The patrols help to prevent injuries and incidents, but as the coastline grows in popularity, so has the demand for a longer patrol season, Mr Gordon said.
Paid patrols will be active at Woodend and Pegasus beaches from December 22 to January 25 and the weekend of January 31 and February 1.
At Waikuku Beach, paid patrols will operate from December 15 to February 6, with volunteer patrols operating in weekends until March 15.
The Woodend Beach Surf Life Saving Club has been providing volunteer patrols at Waikuku Beach since November 8.
The Woodend-Sefton Community Board advocated for extra funding after receiving a deputation from a local resident, who had monitored the numbers on the beach and in the water over the summer.
Councillor and former community board chairperson Shona Powell said the investment makes sense.
‘‘We know how much locals and visitors love the beaches, but no day at the beach should end in tragedy and that’s why extending the season is a no-brainer.
‘‘Partnering with Surf Life Saving NZ means more families can enjoy great days at the beach under the watchful eyes of lifeguards.’’
Surf Life Saving NZ southern region manager Stu Bryce said the partnership with the council is invaluable.
‘‘Our charity plays a critical role in keeping Kiwis safe over summer. It’s great to see the council investing in the safety of their community.
‘‘Throughout summer our team will be there keeping a watchful eye on locals enjoying Waimakariri’s beaches.’’
While there have been no major incidents reported on Waimakariri’s beaches in recent years, lifeguards kept an on swimmers and weather conditions, and were trained in first aid, operating the radios and launching the rescue boats.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
