Lifeguards on New Zealand beaches are gearing for a step-up in workload, and hoping for sensible behaviour from swimmers.

Surf Life Saving Northern Region have said all 17 clubs in its area, covering 24 beaches from Raglan north around North Cape and south to Auckland city, will be at full complement from this weekend.

Operations manager Adam Wooler said they will provide seven-day-a-week patrols until mid-January.

"Our lifeguards are active for much of the year, but for us this weekend marks the beginning of the busy season and a real step-up," he said.

"The weather is hot and fine and the sea is warmer than usual. We're expecting beach numbers to grow dramatically and have our fingers crossed that we'll have enough volunteers to cope."

Wooler is hoping sensible behaviour from beachgoers will lead to fewer preventable injuries or deaths, but expects lifeguards to be busy.

"We're realistic," he said.

"We know some people will take risks and get into difficulties, but we'll be doing our best to act early to prevent major problems."

Wooler said the messages to the swimmers remained simple:
- If unfamiliar with a beach, check with lifeguards first;
- Poor behaviour through bravado or lack of common sense increases the risk of getting into trouble;
- Swim between the flags;
- Understand your level of ability in the water and know your limits.

- NZ Newswire