Taylors Mistake volunteer lifeguards will be patrolling local beaches 11am-5pm on weekends and public holidays until mid-March.
Christchurch lifeguards are calling for extra care following two near-drowning incidents.
The warming also comes as Christchurch swelters with over 30-degree temperatures for the past two days.
A St John Ambulance spokeswoman said they were notified of a water-related incident in Clifton at 11:41AM Saturday, and responded with one ambulance and two managers to the scene.
“We assessed and treated one patient in a moderate condition who was transported to Christchurch hospital.”
Last night, just after 10PM, a woman got into difficulty in waters at Taylors Mistake.
She was transported to Christchurch Hospital in a serious condition.
Taylors Mistake Beach on Saturday / Photo: Supplied
Volunteer lifeguards will be patrolling local beaches 11am-5pm on weekends and public holidays until mid-March.
The weekday patrols, which are funded by the Christchurch City Council, cover the school holidays only and have finished for the season.
Taylors Mistake Surf Life Saving Club President Vivienne Bickley said “unfortunately, as a volunteer organisation, we can’t provide lifeguards at all times, so it’s important the public is aware of the risks and take beach safety seriously.”
Taylors Mistake Beach on Saturday / Photo: Supplied
“That includes making decisions appropriate for the surf conditions on that day and their own abilities.
“Each day and even every hour is different, and every beach has its own hazards – you have to always be evaluating and reviewing the risk.
Taylors Mistake Beach on Saturday / Photo: Supplied
“At Taylors Mistake Beach, the conditions are currently very dangerous, with multiple rips running, including one very large rip in front of the surf club.”
Bickley said over the December/January period, lifeguards performed 33 rescues and assisted 22 others to safety, during patrols.
“We’ve had several after-hours call-outs this season and it concerns us that we may see more, given these hot temperatures.
“Please, please act responsibly and take beach safety seriously.
Waimairi Beach on Saturday afternoon / Photo: Chris Lynch Media
Shark spotted at Christchurch beach
Meanwhile, two Christchurch beaches were cleared following a sighting of a shark late this morning, but have since reopened.
A swimmer said the shark was seen between Waimairi and North Beach, but was spotted more towards the North Beach end.
A volunteer lifeguard told Chris Lynch Media, the shark was pretty small, about one and a half metres.
A sign warning swimmers about the shark sighting was erected at Waimairi Beach, however, swimmers were allowed back in the waters, between the flags, at both beaches this afternoon.
Tips for staying safe at the beach
Swim at a patrolled beach.
Swim between the flags and listen to lifeguard instructions.
Always swim with a friend or have spotter on the beach.
Know your limits.
Speak to lifeguards about the conditions.
Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
fI you spot someone in trouble outside of patrol hours, please call 111.
