Lifeguarding

Lifeguarding is the core role of Taylors Mistake Surf Life Saving Club and our voluntary patrols work with the public to prevent injury and drowning and provide treatment if necessary. 

Taylors Mistake Surf Life Saving Club provides patrols on weekends in the summer months from November to March, on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 5pm. These hours may be extended when required, based on the weather and the number of public on the beach.

Regional lifeguards also patrol the beach from 10am to 6pm on weekdays during the busy summer school holiday period.

Beach Safety

While visiting Taylors Mistake beach, we recommend talking to the lifeguards on duty to identify specific areas or conditions that you should be aware of.  As a general guide on how you can practice beach safety: 

• Swim between the red and yellow flags. The flags show the safest place to swim but be aware that flags may be moved as wind, tide or surf conditions can change. 
• Listen to the advice from surf lifeguards.
• Supervise young children at all times. It only takes a moment to drown.
• Never swim or surf alone if you are not confident in the ocean or you are unsure about conditions.
• Rips may occur at Taylors Mistake beach – learn to recognise these.
• Be Sun Smart. Cover up and seek shade in the hottest part of the day, wear a hat, apply sunscreen regularly and use sunglasses.
• Be smart around rocks particularly in medium to strong surf. Don’t think a wave will simply wash around you, moving water is powerful.  When fishing, always wear a life jacket and remember these rules:
  • Never stand on a rock outcrop that is already wet – a sure sign waves will be washing over it
  • Always face the ocean, never turn your back on the sea
  • Always have a clear escape path to safe ground

First Aid

Lifeguards around New Zealand usually provide first aid to more than 1000 people every year.  All lifeguards at Taylors Mistake are trained to perform rescues, administer first aid and to respond to medical emergencies.  The Club carries an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), spinal boards, oxygen and Penthrox (as well as other pain relief), and first aid supplies to treat all other injuries.