Lions give Mairangi lifesavers a boost

Plans to expand lifesaving services on the Shore have been set in motion with an $84,000 windfall.
The Lion Foundation has granted Mairangi Bay Surf Lifesaving Club funding for new lifeguard towers, an inflatable rescue boat, jetskis, a rescue vehicle and an upgrade of its radio-phone system.
The club aims to post lifeguards on 12 beaches along the Shore over the next three years - up from four this summer.
Beaches will eventually be manned over an extended period to include the Christmas school holidays. Last season the club's lifesavers rescued 38 people.
Population growth is expected to increase the need for rescue and first-aid services on the North Shore, says club manager Ross Pounds. - by Holly Reid