bp Rescues of the Month: January

Thanks to the support of bp, Surf Life Saving New Zealand is proud to recognise some of our outstanding rescues from the past month. These rescues are nominated by clubs, and reflect the skill, complexity and courage lifeguards demonstrate when it matters most.

Haley Mahoney, bp New Zealand’s Head of Country, says; “We want to recognise the exceptional efforts of Tairua SLSC, Taylors Mistake SLSC, Karekare SLSC and WBOP SAR this month. These rescues demonstrate the courage, quick thinking and teamwork surf lifeguards bring to high-pressure and challenging situations. It’s inspiring to see the incredible work they do, not only on the beach but also during extreme weather events, to help keep their communities safer.”

bp Rescues of the Month - January 2026

Eastern Region – Tairua SLSC

Lifeguards: Bella Muir, Emily Carter, Nina McFarland, Mathieu Reid, George Reid

Just as patrol were packing down on 6 January 2026, a member of the public ran to the Tairua surf club reporting three people in distress at the north end of the beach. Nina McFarland, on tower duty, immediately initiated a response, deploying Bella Muir and Emily Carter via ATV. SurfCom confirmed the incident while Pauanui SLSC proactively offered RWC support.

At the hazardous rocky section, Bella and Emily entered the surf and performed two high-risk tube rescues, assisted by a volunteer surfer. Two patients, a 19-year-old female and a 20-year-old male, were safely returned to shore, while a 13-year-old boy was confirmed to have self-extricated. Duty Officer Chaz Gibbons-Campbell oversaw the broader response, and peer supporters assisted lifeguards back at the club.

The team’s rapid remobilisation, clear communication, and calm execution in challenging surf conditions prevented what could have been multiple fatalities. Their professionalism, teamwork, and decisive action highlight the critical role volunteer lifeguards play in protecting their community.

Southern Region – Taylors Mistake SLSC

Lifeguards: Joe Hall, Taylor Chamberlain, Tig Chamberlain, Liv Jackson, Brooke Goldsmith, Dave Mills, Simon Anderson, Patrice de Beer, Niels de Beer

On 4 January 2026, a local fisherman slipped four metres from rocks at Moki Point, Taylors Mistake, sustaining severe head injuries and suspected spinal trauma. Walkers called 111, prompting a multi-agency response. Taylors Mistake lifeguards quickly redirected their IRB and paddleboards to assist Coastguard, Police, Westpac Rescue and St John teams.

On arrival, lifeguards helped control bleeding, stabilised the patient, and assisted with complex spinal packaging on unstable rocks. A local GP and SAR-trained personnel supported the rescue. Lifeguards maintained patient reassurance, coordinated with multiple agencies, and ensured safe transfer to the helicopter and Westpac Rescue.

Their advanced first aid, teamwork, and ability to adapt under pressure ensured the patient received timely care. The rescue highlights the depth of Surf Lifesaving NZ training and the importance of lifeguard preparedness in high-risk, multi-agency scenarios.

Northern Region – Karekare SLSC

Lifeguards: Fraser Harvey, Shay Scott, David Munro, Chrissie Sidwell, David Sidwell, Kaia Newton, Hayley Duncan, Freida Peart, Chris Chambers, Shani Charan, Tara Kelly-Hulse, Oscar Chaafe, Ben Wanden-Hannay, Eti Eves

On 10 January 2026, Patrol 2 were alerted to three people stranded on a rock ledge inside The Cauldron, Karekare Beach. The location is hazardous, with incoming tides and confined surf. Acting Patrol Captain Fraser Harvey and Vice Patrol Captain Shay Scott coordinated land, RWC, and IRB reconnaissance. David Munro managed beach safety and communications.

One patient had a serious leg fracture, while the other two required assistance to reach the RWC. Lifeguards used the RWC to recover patients safely, while the injured man was winched to Auckland City Hospital by Westpac Rescue Helicopter. The team maintained constant communication with SurfCom and other agencies while controlling public safety.

This rescue showcased expert craft handling, advanced rock and surf rescue skills, and calm, coordinated decision-making. The patrol’s quick and professional response ensured all three patients were removed safely before conditions deteriorated.

Eastern Region – WBOP SAR (Western Bay of Plenty)

Rescue Crew: Stu Lowth, Haven Bellamy, Brent Warner, Dani Shepard, Callum McKenzie, Duncan Bentley, Tai Rimmer, Liam Shannahan, Donal Boyle

During severe flooding on 22 January 2026, WBOP SAR responded to a stranded Unimog on Waitao Road carrying evacuees and emergency personnel in chest-high floodwaters. Crews were activated at 0402hrs and established a Safe Forward Point with Police coordination.

SAR teams navigated fast-flowing, debris-laden waters in darkness, working with FENZ Swift Water Rescue teams. All 11 people in the vehicle, including two Police officers, a dog and a cat, were safely removed using IRBs and rescue rafts. Four required helicopter medical evacuation.

The operation highlighted careful risk assessment, leadership, and inter-agency coordination under extreme conditions. SAR personnel demonstrated exceptional skill, resilience, and teamwork, ensuring every life was brought to safety during a rapidly evolving flood emergency.

Congratulations to our January winners! If your club has been involved in an exceptional rescue, we encourage you to nominate it for bp Rescue of the Month. Submit your nomination via the online form here.