Skip to main content

Kōrero: Lifesaving and surfing

Lifesaving reel

Image
Lifesaving reel

New Zealand lifesaving techniques and equipment have evolved, often in response to local conditions. One important development was the 1948 invention of the Ross Safety Belt, a canvas chest harness held together with a steel pin. The harness could be easily removed if the line it was attached to became snagged during a rescue. Later the steel pin was replaced by Velcro.

Te whakamahi i tēnei tūemi

Puke Ariki - Taranaki Museum & Library

Reference: TM.2003.129

This item must not be copied or reproduced in any print or electronic media without the prior permission of Puke Ariki Museum and Library. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

Ngā whakaahua me ngā rauemi katoa o tēnei kōrero

Me pēnei te tohu i te whārang

Nancy Swarbrick, Lifesaving and surfing – Surf lifesaving develops, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/mi/object/7359/lifesaving-reel (accessed 24 June 2026).

He kōrero nā Nancy Swarbrick, i tāngia i te 2 March 2009.