Surf Life Saving Winter Appeal

Last season around 4000 lifeguards spent over 200,000 hours patrolling 80 beaches, saving over 1,600 lives. While most Kiwis were out enjoying their summer, volunteer lifeguards gave theirs up to help keep the community safe in the water.

But just because winter is here, it doesn't mean that they go into hiding.  While most people are craving another summer, surf lifeguards are already training for it.  

Now it's your turn to lend a hand and show your thanks by supporting the Surf Life Saving Winter Appeal.

Surf Life Saving is an essential rescue charity that doesn't receive any government funding. The organisation has been around for over 100 years and in that time, volunteer lifeguards have saved countless lives.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand CEO Paul Dalton says the Winter Appeal is an important event for Surf Life Saving to raise much needed funds along with awareness of lifesaving services at a time when the beach isn't front of mind.

"It's all about protecting our community in the water.  The safety of people on the beach is our core business and lifeguards patrolling the beach is an integral part of that.  The beach is New Zealand's favourite playground and with your support we can ensure lifeguards are there for you when you need them," he says.

So come on- give us a hand and dip in your pocket so we're ready to keep you safe when you dip in the water next summer.

There won't be any street collectors for the Winter Appeal- so text WINTER, DIP or SURF to 4483 to automatically donate $3 or visit www.surflifesaving.org.nz/supportus to make a donation online. 

Media highlights

• Phoenix players take mid-winter plunge, Stuff.co.nz
• Mid Winter Dip at Oriental Bay, TVNZ Breakfast