'Safety operation' for Muriwai Beach

Authorities will be conducting a "joint safety operation" at Muriwai Beach to make sure everyone's following the rules. Photo / Getty Images

The behaviour of surf-goers at a popular Auckland beach will come under the spotlight on Sunday.

Authorities will be conducting a "joint safety operation" at Muriwai Beach to make sure everyone's following the rules at the busy spot.

Police say over the past year 45,000 vehicles have accesses the beach from Coast Rd, resulting in a number of "safety issues".

And in September, four people died while driving along the beach.

"While most people using the beach are courteous and abide by the signposted rules, there has been an increase of unlawful and high-risk driving activity on the beach and around Muriwai Regional Park," said Sergeant Dave Orr, the officer in charge of Kumeu and Huapai police.

On Sunday police will patrol the area in 4WD vehicles, while other officers will be on horseback. There will be an alcohol checkpoint at the entrance to the beach.

"The aim of the operation is to inform beach users of the rules and safety issues when using Muriwai Beach," Mr Orr said.

"Police, as well as other enforcement officers, will be dealing with any breaches discovered and will provide information in the form of beach users handbooks and general advice.

"I would encourage members of the public to familiarise themselves with the rules for using vehicles on Muriwai Beach, found on the Auckland Council website."

As well as police, Auckland Park Rangers, the Defence Force, local iwi members and Ministry of Fisheries officers are also taking part in the operation.