Lifeguards battle rough seas in west coast rescues

Lifeguards fought large surf yesterday to save a mother and her son who were dragged into the sea by a wave off Auckland's west coast.

The 30-year-old woman and the 7-year-old boy were walking around rocks at Dings Bay, between Bethells and Muriwai, when waves knocked them into the water.

Lifeguard James Lea said a rip swept them out to sea where, weighed down by their clothing, they struggled to keep their heads above the water.

An inflatable rescue boat and a lifeguard went to the scene but Mr Lea said large surf made it difficult for the craft to get near the pair.

Guards jumped into the "swirling ocean" and swam them to the boat, which took them back to the shore.

The woman had swallowed a lot of water and needed first aid before being taken to hospital by ambulance.

Also yesterday, Muriwai Beach lifeguards saved three young people from drowning at Maori Bay.

Members of the public noticed the two males and a female struggling in the water and called for help.

Patrol captain Andrew Lancaster said two rescue boats battled "horrendous surf" to rescue the trio.

A St John spokeswoman said two 14-year-olds were taken to Starship Hospital, one with serious and the other with moderate injuries.

Mr Lancaster said the surf was dangerous and swimmers needed to be careful to swim only between the flags.

Bad weather has meant few rescues on northern beaches this season but as conditions improve surf lifesavers are urging caution.

* A search for a man reported missing near Piha was called off last night when he was found playing golf. It was initially feared the man was lost in bush.