Police praise member of public after surfer stuck in swells saved

Police have praised the quick actions of a member of the public who raised the alarm after spotting a surfer unable to make it back into shore in challenging conditions at Fitzroy Beach in New Plymouth.

Three surf lifeguards using an IRB and one onshore with an all-terrain-vehicle were able to rescue the surfer approximately 200 metres off shore at about 4pm on Sunday.

At the time, winds were estimated to be 30 to 40 knots with swells of around two metres.

Detective Nathan Hessell of Taranaki police search and rescue said the surfer was assessed and treated by ambulance staff, but required no further treatment.

Hessell said the member of the public's actions enabled emergency services to be deployed promptly and highlighted importance of speaking up when someone appears to be in trouble.

"We're grateful to the member of the public who called police after recognising the surfer may be in difficulty.

"Their quick actions helped get assistance deployed promptly."