Summer is here! Longer days, warmer nights, and plenty of chances to hit the beach, go for a hike, or just chill by the pool. But before you dive in, let’s make sure you and your whānau stay safe while soaking up the sunshine.

Water safety:

Swimming is the ultimate summer cool-down, but safety comes first:

• Check before you dip: In Auckland, water quality can change fast. Use SafeSwim for real-time updates on beach conditions, pollution levels, and lifeguard availability

• Swim smart: Stick to beaches with lifeguards and stay between the flags. If there’s no lifeguard, keep to calm, shallow areas

• Dress bright: For tamariki, bright swimsuits are a lifesaver – literally! Avoid light blue, grey, or green swimsuits, which can blend into water and pool surroundings

• Know your rips: Rip currents – natural water movements that can pull swimmers away from shore – are common on NZ beaches. Learn how to spot and avoid them – Surf Life Saving NZ has great resources to boost your beach smarts.

Sun safety: beat the heat

Hot days are great, but heat exhaustion and sunburn? Not so much. Here’s how to stay cool and protected:

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink plenty of water

• Dress for success: Hats, sunnies, and loose, light clothing are your best friends

• Shade is your mate: Avoid long stints in direct sun.

And don’t the sunscreen! Here’s what to look for:

• Broad spectrum: Protects against UVA and UVB rays

• Water-resistant: Perfect for beach, pool, or river days – just remember to reapply

• SPF 30 or higher: The magic number for solid protection.

Summer is all about fun, but a little prep goes a long way. Stay safe, stay cool, and enjoy every sunny moment!