Mount Maunganui Lifeguards have issued a warning about a naturally occurring phenomenon that could become a hazard for swimmers.

A massive and deep gutter has formed on the beach between Banks Avenue and Tay Street along the Mount Maunganui coast.

The Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service says the gutter is great for playing in at low tide.

"But as the tide comes in and the gutter fills, it can create dangerous currents and rips."

The lifeguards advise parents and whanau to keep a close eye on children swimming in the area.

They suggest it may be even safer to head down to the Mount Main Beach and swim between the flags.