Police are praising the actions of a jet skier who rescued two swimmers in Bowentown, but say the incident could have been prevented.
Eastern Waikato prevention manager Senior Sergeant Rod Carpinter said two 15-year-old boys had been swimming off ANZAC cove near Bowentown yesterday when they got into difficulty shortlyafter 5.30pm.
"It looks like they were swept out in the current after swimming off the deeper end of the beach and they just managed to raise the attention of a jet-skier in the area who dragged them back to shore.
"The pair were then taken by ambulance to Tauranga Hospital in a status three condition."
Mr Carpinter said the police would be looking at the most appropriate way to acknowledge the jet-skier's actions and meanwhile asked holiday makers to follow some basic steps to prevent them getting into trouble when enjoying the ocean this summer.
"Always swim between the flags and where possible, swim with a friend.
"While swimming with your friend or friends know and keep to the limits of your capabilities. If you don't know the area, swim closer to shore, unknown currents and rips can soon become dangerous."
Mr Carpinter said lifeguards were on duty at most popular beaches and people were encouraged to seek them out and ask for their advice on local conditions before entering the water.
