Lifeguards are warning that coastlines, covid and complacency don't mix

The number of emergency callouts has doubled in recent months, with the Surf Life Saving Northern Region urging people to stay safe around the water.

Lifeguards say the lockdowns have given people a new-found appreciation for nature, with many rushing back outdoors, often without taking the right precautions.

Surf Life Saving Northern Region CEO Matt Williams says the last week has shown just how many ways there are to get in trouble on the coast - with six serious incidents across Auckland and Northland, resulting in multiple rescues, one drowning and one presumed drowning.

The latest incident saw three people swept out to sea at Bethells Beach yesterday - they were rescued, but one woman was flown to hospital.