Bay of Plenty Lifeguards Rescued 27 Kayakers Swept Out to Sea and Spotted a Shark
Bay of Plenty surf lifeguards had a hectic day on Thursday when they had to rescue a group of 27 kayakers in Whangamatā who were being swept out to sea by strong offshore winds. Additionally, in Tauranga, lifeguards had to clear the water due to a shark sighting between the flags. This unexpected turn of events kept the lifeguards on their toes throughout the day.
Rescue Operation in Whangamatā
The incident in Whangamatā took place around 2 pm when lifeguards noticed the kayakers struggling against the powerful offshore winds. Despite their best efforts, the kayakers were unable to make their way back to safety on their own. The Whangamatā lifeguards sprang into action, spending three hours rescuing each of the 27 kayakers and safely bringing them back to shore.
Challenges Faced by Lifeguards
Chaz Gibbons-Campbell, the Surf Lifesaving New Zealand Eastern region manager, highlighted the recent trend of strong offshore breezes catching people off guard, especially in the afternoons. These winds have been causing kayaks and inflatable toys to be blown out to sea, requiring lifeguards to intervene and ensure everyone’s safety.
Shark Sighting in Tauranga
In a separate incident at Omanu beach in Tauranga, lifeguards noticed a suspected bronze whaler shark swimming close to the shore around 3:45 pm. While the shark was not likely to harm anyone, lifeguards took precautionary measures to clear the water and give the marine animal its space to move freely. Gibbons-Campbell emphasized the importance of respecting the sharks’ habitat and ensuring minimal disruption to their natural behavior.
Understanding Shark Behavior
Gibbons-Campbell shed light on sharks’ preference for shallow, warmer waters close to the shore, reiterating that encountering them near the beach is not uncommon. He reassured the public that sharks are generally not interested in humans as prey and advised giving them space when spotted in the water. By maintaining a safe distance and allowing sharks to pass undisturbed, beachgoers can coexist peacefully with these fascinating creatures.
Personal Experience: As a frequent beachgoer myself, these incidents serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the ocean and the importance of respecting marine life. The bravery and quick response of the lifeguards in safeguarding both the kayakers and the shark exemplify their dedication to ensuring everyone’s safety at the beach. It is crucial for us to remain vigilant, follow lifeguards’ instructions, and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the marine environment while enjoying our time by the sea.