Surf lifeguards in Raglan were kept busy over the weekend attending to more than 40 first aid incidents in a single day — the "majority" of those caused by blue bottle jellyfish stings.
Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) chief executive Steve Fisher said there are "many hazards" at the beach and in the water that aren't related to ocean conditions, such as hot sand and blue bottles which are common over the summer months.
"While encounters with blue bottles and hot sand are generally not life-threatening, they can be extremely painful.
"We encourage beach-goers to stay informed and check the Safe Swim website before heading to the beach, for both conditions and any hazards that may be present."
SLSNZ said the incidents serve as a reminder for all members of the public to carry EpiPens if they are allergic to jellyfish.
Raglan Surf Life Saving Club had extended its patrol hours on the weekend as beach numbers remained high well into the late afternoon.
In a report, SLSNZ said lifeguards at Raglan also responded to two surfers struggling to make progress in a rip current, using a rescue board to reach the surfers and help them back to shore.
Fisher also highlighted several incidents from over the weekend of people being caught in rip currents and not knowing what to do.
"Nationally, surf lifeguards rescued over 8 people from potentially life-threatening situations, including being stuck in strong rip currents," he said.
He said overall people were well-behaved and aware of the many dangers around the country's coastlines.
"We are glad that our safety messages are getting through and our surf lifeguards continue to remain vigilant, but we want to remind people that the safest place to swim at the beach is between the red and yellow flags."
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