Surf Life Saving NZ Acknowledges Fatality at Piha Beach

Statement

Jan 28, 2021

Surf Lifeguards assisted in the rescue and attempted resuscitation of an adult male at Piha Beach on the afternoon of January 26, 2021. The patient was later pronounced deceased at the scene following a suspected medical event.

Surf Lifeguards were assisted by St John Ambulance, the Rescue Helicopter, NZ Police and Fire & Emergency NZ. The incident took place at a lifeguarded beach during patrol hours.

Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand would like to thank all Surf Lifeguards and emergency service personnel involved in the incident.

The death will be referred to the Coroner and Surf Life Saving New Zealand’s Coastal Safety team will continue to work with emergency services to establish the circumstances.

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For more information, please contact:

Mackenzie Koppel

Surf Life Saving NZ Media & Communications Manager

021 757 433

mackenzie.koppel@surflifesaving.org.nz