Papamoa surf lifesaver Natalie Peat is winging her way to the sands of France after a late call up to the New Zealand team for Rescue 2014.

The last minute selection comes as Devon Halligan was ruled out of the Lifesaving World Championships due to an ankle injury.

Papamoa surf lifesaver Natalie Peat.

Peat missed out on the initial cut after being announced in the open training squad back in June. She is currently a Surf Life Saving New Zealand high performance member.

Last week she set a new pool record in the 100m Manikin Tow with Fins in a time of 1.04.43 at the Surf Life Saving New Zealand pool championships.

New Zealand coach Scott Bartlett says Halligan sustained the injury four weeks ago and despite making great progress the decision was made that the injury had not improved enough.

'It's obviously very disappointing for her and her team mates but it's important that we look long term for her career and enable her time to heal properly.

'We are pleased to have Natalie on board and we know that she will give the competition her all.”

Peat is no stranger to international competition. She was part of New Zealand Youth team for Rescue 2012 in Adelaide and last year travelled with the New Zealand Team to the International Surf Rescue Challenge in Japan.

The Black Fins, along with the NZ Youth team, departed from Auckland Airport at midday today and will arrive in Paris tomorrow.

Rescue 2014 runs from September 13-26 with the national team's competition running from September 16-21.