Get Ready for Summer: Safety Tips for Family Beach Days

New Zealand is blessed with stunning coastlines, and when summer arrives, families head to the beach for sun, surf and time together. While a day at the beach is one of the best parts of a Kiwi summer, it’s important to stay mindful of safety so everyone goes home happy.

Here’s how to keep your whānau protected while enjoying everything the beaches have to offer.

1. Sun Protection Essentials

New Zealand has some of the strongest UV levels in the world, so sun safety is crucial for all ages. Teach your family to Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, and Slide:

Slip-on Protective Clothing: Opt for lightweight, long-sleeve shirts and rash guards for added UV protection.

Slop on SPF 30+ Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to all exposed skin areas at least 20 minutes before heading out and reapply every two hours or after swimming.

Slap on a Hat: Wide-brimmed hats provide extra shade for the face, ears, and neck.

Seek Shade: Take breaks in the shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Slide on Sunglasses: Choose UV-protective eyewear to safeguard eyes against sun damage.

Hydration is another key part of sun safety. Bring plenty of water and encourage everyone to drink regularly, as children can be so focused on playing that they forget to hydrate.

2. Water Safety: A Priority for All Ages

New Zealand beaches are beautiful but can be unpredictable. Ensure your family is prepared with these water safety practices:

Swim Between the Flags: Lifeguard-patrolled areas are marked by red and yellow flags, indicating the safest spots for swimming. Teach kids to recognise these markers and explain why it’s important to stay within them.

Keep an Eye on Kids at All Times: Ocean conditions can change quickly, so maintain close supervision, even if they’re just wading.

Teach Rip Awareness: Rips are common on many Kiwi beaches. Show older children how to spot them and explain what to do if they’re caught in one — stay calm, float or tread water, signal for help, and swim parallel to the shore.

3. Be ready for weather shifts.

Coastal weather in New Zealand can change quickly. Bright sunshine can turn into breezy conditions in minutes.

Check beach forecasts before you leave, and pack extra towels or a light layer so everyone stays comfortable if the temperature drops.

4. Protect against marine hazards

Watch for Jellyfish and Other Sea Creatures: While exploring tide pools or the surf, remind kids to avoid touching unfamiliar marine life. It’s wise to pack vinegar or a basic first-aid kit to address jellyfish stings, which can be common in certain regions.

Beware of Hot Sand: In summer, sand can become very hot, causing burns on little feet. Ensure everyone has sandals or water shoes to protect against the heat when walking.

5. Beach Games and Equipment Safety

Bringing toys and games can make a beach day extra fun, but it’s essential to keep everything safely organised to prevent accidents.

Secure Equipment: Avoid items that could blow away easily, especially on windy days, and ensure inflatable toys are secured when not in use.

Stay Mindful of Sharp Objects: Bring a quick sweep of the area before settling down to check for rocks, glass, or other items that could pose a hazard.

A beach day in Aotearoa is one of the best parts of summer. With a bit of planning and some simple safety habits, your whānau can enjoy the sunshine and cool off in the waves!