A school trip to rock pools at Waimarama Beach sparked a rescue callout yesterday, after an incoming tide stranded the students on rocks.
A rescue helicopter was called to Waimarama Beach after 15 students from Flaxmere Primary School, two teachers and three parents became stranded at midday, having returned too late
from their expedition.
Police search and rescue co-ordinator detective Martin James said the children, aged between 10 and 12, and adults had been making their way along the rocks from Cray Bay to Waimarama Beach as part of a three-day school camp.
A teacher led half the group to safety and a teacher aide contacted police. After half an hour, the second group had still not made it off the rocks, so police made the decision to deploy the Lowe Corporation Rescue Helicopter. An ambulance was also alerted but not required.
When emergency services arrived all members of the group had managed to climb over the rocks and were safe.
Principal Bev Blake said she stood by the actions of the group, which was led by experienced teachers.
She said the call to services was a precautionary measure after the swell picked up unexpectedly and no parent had contacted her with concerns.
``When you have got children and you are near water you take every precautionary measure you can,'' she said.
``Everyone was safe and the teachers stayed calm and did the right thing.''
She understood the group had gone out early to account for an incoming tide. Waimarama Surf Lifesaving lifeguard director Phil Harman said despite this the group had still misjudged the tide, although high seas might have caused water to come further up the beach than a normal tide.
``It's my understanding they left it too late to come back,'' he said.
The area was not a dangerous spot, ``provided you take heed of the tide'', he said.
``It is no different from going around to Cape Kidnappers. It is a perfectly fine walk but occasionally people will get caught if you aren't aware of the tide times.''
The group could have gone overland through private property if they were in danger, he said.
Waimarama SLC are happy to give advice on tides, local knowledge and weather.
The Flaxmere Primary school camp continues today.
