January is the most dangerous month in the water and on its first day Surf Lifesaving New Zealand rescued 16 people. 

That is the same number as in January 1st last year and double what it was in 2022.

The surf lifeguard crew notched up over 5100 hours of work over the course of New Year's Eve and New Year's Day and are now calling on the public to do their part. 

Surf Lifesaving New Zealand General Manager Andy Kent talks to Tim Beveridge about what you can do to stay safe in the water. 

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