Teenager saved from rip thanks to police officer and lifeguard

RNZ

2 Jan, 2026 03:21 AMQuick Read

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A teenager was rescued from a rip at Paritutu Beach, New Plymouth, on New Year’s Day. Photo / Rob Tucker

A teenager has been rescued from a rip at Paritutu Beach thanks to the quick actions of a police officer and a member of Surf Life Saving.

Police received a call about 7pm on Thursday reporting a teenager was caught in a rip on the New Plymouth coast
and unable to get themselves back to shore.

A water rescue operation was launched, including a rescue helicopter.

A surfer tried to get to the teenager but was unable to reach them.