KEY POINTS:
Surf lifesavers are off duty after this weekend as the swimming season draws to a close.
While most lifeguards around the country have already finished work, tomorrow is the last day patrols will be in place in the northern region.
Northern Region Surf Lifesaving Manager Dean Storey says the season has seen a significant increase in workload. He believes the great run of good weather over the summer is to blame, with more people flocking to beaches.
Mr Storey says swimmers will now have to take more responsibility for their own safety at the beach. He says people should assess the conditions before swimming and stay out of the water if they are in any doubt. He says another key message is never to surf or swim alone.
Lifeguards at south Piha beach have volunteered to keep patrolling on weekends until April 27.
- NEWSTALK ZB
