Whakatāne Surf Life Saving Club has added a powerful new asset to its arsenal of water rescue craft.

A newly acquired jet ski will allow for rapid-response rescues, with capacity to transport up to three patients at a time using a towable rescue sled. There’s also space for a second lifeguard to assist or administer care when needed.

Alongside the new equipment comes the development of new skills and recruitment.

Jamieson Bicknell, pictured above, is one of two qualified operators, with another five or six members training to become certified jet ski rescue operators.

“It’s a great tool for conscious-patient rescues and is used to complement IRBs,” Mr Bicknell said. “Its advantage is its ability to position itself in the surf better than an IRB can and, of course, its speed.”

Training for jet ski certification involves a weekend theory course followed by around 10 hours of on-water training.

While the jet ski’s primary role is to back up the IRBs, its speed and manoeuvrability in challenging surf conditions give the team greater flexibility and faster response times during emergencies.

With the national rollout of jet skis beginning in the northern regions, the initiative has now reached Bay of Plenty surf rescue clubs, much to the excitement of local lifeguards.

“They’re a lot of fun to operate and excellent for rapid response,” Mr Bicknell said.

“The focus now is getting more people trained and confident to use them effectively.

“We’re grateful to Surf Life Saving New Zealand and OPEX funding for helping us secure such a valuable rescue tool.”