Lifeguards Save Three Trapped on NZ's 'Cauldron' Rocks
When three people got trapped on treacherous rocks known as "the cauldron" at Karekare Beach, New Zealand lifeguards and a rescue helicopter worked together to bring everyone home safely. One person with a broken leg was airlifted to hospital in a dramatic coordinated rescue.
Three people are safe today after getting trapped on dangerous rocks at one of New Zealand's most treacherous coastal spots, thanks to quick-thinking lifeguards and emergency crews.
The rescue unfolded Saturday morning at Farley Point near Karekare Beach, a rocky headland locals call "the cauldron." The nickname fits: once the tide comes in, the area becomes like boiling water with no escape route except through rough seas.
A fisherman spotted the three people stuck on the rocks around 11:30am and alerted the Karekare Surf Life Saving Club. One person had fallen and broken their leg on the slippery rocks.
Lifeguards stationed 600 meters away immediately launched an inflatable rescue boat and rescue watercraft. Within minutes, they pulled two people from the rocks and brought them safely back to shore.
The third person, a man in his 50s with the broken leg, needed extra help. The Westpac Rescue Helicopter arrived and carefully winched him from the rocky outcrop before airlifting him to Auckland City Hospital for treatment.
Why This Inspires
This rescue showcases the power of community vigilance and professional preparedness working together. The fisherman who raised the alarm, the lifeguards who responded instantly, and the helicopter crew who completed the technical extraction all played vital roles in bringing three people home safely.
Teresa Harvey, the surf club's administrator, says the area attracts sightseers trying to reach nearby Mercer Bay. The route looks possible but becomes deadly when conditions change.
The rescue highlights why Karekare's volunteer lifeguards train so intensively for rocky coastal emergencies. Their quick deployment of boats and coordination with air rescue made what could have been a tragedy into a story of successful teamwork.
Police praised the surf lifesaving team for their professional response, noting they expertly assessed and cared for all three people until the helicopter could complete the evacuation.
Everyone involved walked away safe, a testament to the dedicated volunteers who watch New Zealand's wild coastlines every summer weekend.
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Based on reporting by Stuff NZ
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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