Surf and sun is a Kiwi summer pastime, but it's not without risk.
Surf lifesavers, police, and the coastguard have been kept busy responding to multiple water-related incidents in 2024.
The searches continue on Thursday for a missing diver in Canterbury, and swimmer at Karioitahi Beach, while two people are confirmed to have died at nearby Auckland beaches on New Year's Day.
Last summer, the Coastguard responded to over 900 incidents where boaties got into trouble.
Coastguard head of operations, Rob McCaw says it's common for people heading out on the water to have all the gear for a good time, but urges they ensure they can get home safely.
Photo: Supplied/ Coastguard
