Automatic drowning detection systems could be the lifesavers public pools in New Zealand need.

The Federation of Swimming Teachers' Associations has revealed that across the globe, lifeguards are under trained and overworked.

World president David Speechley told Mike Hosking the systems are camera-based and when someone isn't moving in the water, an alarm goes off.

"There is 33 documented case throughout the world now, where these systems have actually saved peoples lives."

He said when people go to public pools, they have an expectation lifeguards will keep them safe.

"I've asked around a fair bit with patrons at polls and they are quite happy to pay an extra 10, 20, 30 cents to have that extra layer of protection by the pool"

LISTEN ABOVE AS DAVID SPEECHLEY SPEAKS WITH MIKE HOSKING