A flotation device known as an angel ring is being credited with saving the life of a fisherman in Auckland.
The man was swept off rocks at south Piha on Wednesday afternoon.
In the past year, Surf Life Saving New Zealand has installed a dozen of the rings, which have a long rope attached, at West Coast beaches in case of an emergency.
Senior Constable Barry Gallagher, who was involved in the rescue, says the man is incredibly lucky to be alive.
The man was flown to hospital where he was treated for serious cuts and bruises suffered when waves repeatedly threw him against rocks.
