How Are We Drowning? 2022 Annual Drowning Report

How Are We Drowning?

New Zealand Drowning Prevention Report - 2022

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Karakia for Tangaroa

He huanui, he huaroa ki te Ao From the energies of the extensive and intensive ocean we will learn Omāio ki tua e To maintain balance Ka rongo ki te Waitai e Reciprocation of healing is needed Haramai e te Taipari – Haramai e te Taitimu Celebrate the provisions of the full and low tides Nāu e Hinemoana – Nāu Tangaroa ē The sacred domain of Hinemoana and Tangaroa.

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Water Safety New Zealand

Contents How are we drowning?

Foreword

...........................................................

05

Executive Summary

...........................................................

06

Craft

.........................................................

10

Falls

...........................................................

14

Swimming

...........................................................

18

Underwater

...........................................................

22

Fishing From Land

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26

Offshore

...........................................................

30

Beach

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34

River

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38

Northland

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44

Auckland

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46

Waikato

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48

Bay of Plenty

...........................................................

50

Gisborne

...........................................................

52

Hawke's Bay

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54

Taranaki

...........................................................

56

Manawatu

...........................................................

58

Wellington

...........................................................

60

Marlborough

..........................................................

62

Tasman

..........................................................

64

West Coast

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66

Canterbury

...........................................................

68

Otago

...........................................................

70

Southland

...........................................................

72

4

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Water Safety New Zealand

Foreword As I begin this report on drowning in New Zealand, I reflect with sadness that 94 preventable drownings occurred in 2022, the worst in a decade.

Each year, far too many lives are lost to drowning, leaving families and communities devastated. As you read this report, please remember that behind each of these statistics is a person with hopes, dreams, and loved ones. We must never forget that.

Drowning is a tragic and devastating event that can leave families and communities shattered. However, the dedicated and ongoing work undertaken by the water safety sector should be acknowledged. Since the early 1980s we have seen a near halving of our drowning rate from a peak in 1984 with 163 tragedies to where we are today, averaging about 80 drownings.

Whilst a major contributor to this sustained reduction was the introduction of pool fencing legislation, improved education and continued frontline rescue services have also contributed to this dramatic decrease. The loss of 94 lives in New Zealand waters is a sobering reminder of the dangers that exist as we connect in, on and around the water.

New Zealand has the 10th longest coastline in the world (~15,000km) and is about 1600km long, about the same distance from Brisbane to Hobart. With the ease of access and high participation rates, New Zealand’s beautiful coastline and numerous waterways pose a variety of challenges. New Zealand has one of the highest drowning rates in the developed world, 1.81 drownings per 100,000 people (see figure 1). Our rate of drowning in relation to a growing population has halved since the 1980s but now appears to have stalled over the past 10-15 years. Despite the great intentioned work of the water safety sector, this must remain a cause for concern.

What is the 2022 drowning report telling us as policymakers, sector leaders, programme deliverers and Kiwis? I think the report represents a strong call to action for the upper North Island and in particular Northland.

(figure 1)

The report makes it clear that this is where most people drown, and we need everyone focussed on reducing this risk. The report also acknowledges that pools, public and private, look to be well managed and have consistently low rates of drowning in NZ. This sets NZ apart from many other countries.

Water Safety NZ and the wider sector needs to make sense of these insights and use it to drive change by refining programmes to help those most at risk. Are we reaching enough of the right people at the right times with programmes that help them effectively reduce risk?

So, what is New Zealand’s next drowning prevention circuitbreaker, like the pool fence legislation of the late 1980s? Could it be compulsory lifejacket use? That’s a 3-decade political debate that remains ongoing, as boaties and their passengers continue to drown. Is it greater basic water survival skills? Could the refreshed school curriculum assist in supporting teachers to better provide these basic skills? Is it more lifeguards on more of our beaches? Or is it a drive to change the “she’ll be right” behaviour and get people to take some personal responsibility and have a ‘Hmm? before they jump in’?

While it is vitally important that we continue to raise awareness of the risks associated with water activities, we must continue to celebrate the connection that we, as Kiwis, have to wai/ water, as our playground and pantry. Education, supervision, the use of appropriate safety equipment along with personal responsibility, I believe, are essential in reducing the number of drowning incidents.

I urge everyone to take responsibility for their safety and that of those around them. It's easy to think that drowning won't happen to us, that we are strong swimmers or that we don’t need a life jacket today, but the reality is that anyone can fall victim to the challenges of water. So simply put; take some personal responsibility, follow the guidelines and warnings, swim between the flags, wear life jackets, and never underestimate the power of our oceans, lakes and rivers.

‘Don't be that guy’ who takes unnecessary risks and puts themselves and others in danger.

Let us work together to prevent future drownings and keep our communities safe.

Daniel Gerrard CEO Water Safety New Zealand

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Executive Summary

Who is Losing Their Life?

Drowning deaths by activity

Drowning deaths by environment

6

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Executive Summary

Where are People Drowning?

94

Lives were lost in New Zealand waterways in 2022

In 2022 there were 94 drowning

fatalities. The largest annual loss of

life in New Zealand waterways for

the past decade.

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Water Safety New Zealand

Executive Summary New Zealand Drowning Prevention Report - 2022 ISSN 2463-445X (Online) The New Zealand Drowning Prevention Report provides an

Twelve people in 2022 drowned in craft multiple fatality events –

overview of the preventable drowning fatalities of 2022 against

one in Auckland (two deaths), one in Northland (five deaths) and

a longer term view of drowning fatalities by activity, environment

one in Canterbury (five deaths). This is the highest number of

and region. It also attempts to identify any patterns and trends

people who drowned in craft multiple fatality events since 2012,

that contributed to the 2022 numbers.

and more than twice the 10-year average (five total deaths in multiple fatality events). These events would have contributed

The numbers are in, and they're not great.

significantly to the higher than average drowning fatality totals in Northland and Canterbury.

In 2022, New Zealand experienced the highest annual drowning fatalities in the last decade, with a total of 94 deaths across

As we share this data for the 2022 year summary, there are

the country. This is 12 fatalities above the 2013-2022 10-year

recent drownings deaths that have highlighted another area of

average of 82. However, the 10-year total annual fatality number is relatively flat over time.

Annually, total fatality numbers are seen to increase and decrease in a broad sine wave pattern, which is likely due to the associated weather patterns. The relaxing of Covid restriction also occurred in 2022, as did several extreme weather events - all of which may have impacted on the number of fatalities.

Consequently, annual figures and or short-term patterns (less than 10 years) should be looked at in context of long-term

focus that is expected to increase in the coming years: the 9 drowning deaths already due to flooding so far in 2023.

In the 43 years of records, 1980-2022, there were 18 drowning deaths due to flooding. The extreme weather events in Auckland in January 2023 and Cyclone Gabrielle on the east coast of New Zealand in February resulted in a 50% increase to that total in the space of 3 weeks. With forecasts of more extreme weather events due to the changing climate and more people finding themselves living in flood zones, it will take concentrated effort from local and national government, as

trends and therefore should be treated with caution.

well as flood water education to prevent more deaths.

The majority of these drownings were attributed to craft

Flood related deaths have no targeted age or ethnicity, or -

incidents (29 drowning fatalities). Swimming (19 drowning

unusually for water related activities - gender distinctions. The

fatalities), which is usually the most common cause of recreational drowning fatalities, was just above the 10-year average (18) in 2022.

Māori and Pacific Peoples are significantly overrepresented. The majority of Māori deaths occurred while they were undertaking swimming, boating and underwater activities. Pacific Peoples died participating in a wider range of recreational activities than in previous years.

27 flood drowning deaths range in age from toddler to age 90. and 56% of these were female. Almost half (44%) of flood drowning deaths were of people inside their house or trying to escape their house; a further third (33%) were in cars or trying to escape their car. The others were either attempting to cross floodwaters (11%) or viewing flood water in some capacity and fell in (11%).

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Overall, the report concludes that the high number of drowning fatalities in 2022 was mainly due to a higher than average number of multiple fatalities involving powered craft.

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Key Activities

Craft

Fatalities by Gender 2022

Fatalities by Environment 2022

52% 24% Tidal Water

Fatalities by Top 3 Age Group 2022

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Age Group compared to 10 year avg.

10

3%

Beach

10%

Rivers

10%

Inland Still

0%

Pools

0%

Home

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity compared to 10 year avg.

20

10 Year Average

10 Year Average

8

15

2022 Total

2022 Total

6 10

4 5

2

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

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Key Activities

Craft

29

People drowned from craft incidents in 2022

More people drowned in New

Zealand from craft incidents than any other activity in 2022.

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Key Activities

Craft In the context of this report, a craft is any vessel or device that

The majority of craft drowning deaths occur in the older age

is designed or used for travel on water. Craft can be classified

groups, with 72% of these deaths recorded among individuals

into two broad categories: powered and non-powered.

over the age of 45. The most common age group for such deaths is between 55-64 years.

1. Powered craft: These are vessels that are propelled by a motor or engine, such as boats, jet skis, or motorised rafts.

Over half of the total craft drowning deaths occur in offshore

Powered craft can range in size from small personal watercraft

environments, while 24% of the deaths happened in tidal

to large commercial vessels, and can reach high speeds or

waters and 10% in rivers and streams.

operate in a variety of water conditions.

The loss of life due to craft drownings in New Zealand is a 2. Non-powered craft: These are vessels that are not propelled

tragic and preventable occurrence. While there are currently

by a motor or engine, such as canoes, kayaks, or stand-up

19 different bylaws relating to lifejacket use in the country, the

paddleboards. Non-powered craft rely on human power or

fact remains that many drowning deaths could be reduced if

wind to move through the water, and can be used for a variety

more people wore life jackets. Currently, in most regions, the

of recreational activities, such as fishing, touring, or surfing.

decision on when it is appropriate to wear a lifejacket is left to the skipper. However, the data highlights the importance

Craft-related incidents are the leading cause of drowning

of updating legislation to ensure that skippers are not solely

deaths in New Zealand, accounting for 31% of all such deaths

responsible for this vital decision.

in the country in 2022. A total of 29 lives were lost while taking part in craft activities that year.

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Key Activities

Falls

Fatalities by Gender 2022

Fatalities by Environment 2022

0%

Fatalities by Top 3 Age Group 2022

10%

Tidal Water

14%

Beach

38% Rivers

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Age Group compared to 10 year avg.

5%

Inland Still

19%

Pools

14%

Home

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity compared to 10 year avg.

15

8 7

10 Year Average

12

10 Year Average

6

2022 Total

2022 Total

5

9

4 6

3 2

3

1 0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

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Key Activities

Falls

21

People drowned from slipping, or falling into the water accidentally.

Falls typically refer to the broad range of incidents

where a person slips, trips, or loses their balance and falls into and under the water.

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Key Activities

Falls

In the context of this report, “falls” typically refer to the broad

This activity group stands out with the largest gender

range of incidents where a person slips, trips, or loses their

and age spread and a relatively low 66% male drowning

balance and falls into and under the water. Falls can occur

death rate. The age spread is evident, with 38% of deaths

in a variety of water environments, such as swimming pools,

occurring among individuals aged between 65 - 75 years,

paddling pools, baths, rocky foreshore, beaches, rivers, or

while 34% of deaths were individuals younger than fifteen.

riverbanks, and can pose a significant risk to water users and those not intending to enter the water.

The spread of environments from which these drowning

Some common examples within the “falls” category include:

deaths occur is also relatively wide compared to other activity

- Rescuing others

groups. The most common environments are rivers and

- River crossing

streams, accounting for 38% of non-recreational drowning

- Floods/civil emergencies

deaths, followed by pools at 19%, and home at 14%.

- Unknown immersion incidents While the decrease in non-recreational drowning deaths in Slips and Falls drowning deaths accounted for 22% of the

2022 is a positive development, there is still much work to be

nationwide annual total in 2022. While there is no consistent

done to prevent these tragic and preventable incidents.

long-term trend, the 2022 figures for this activity group were encouraging, showing a 30% reduction in drowning deaths compared to 2021 and sitting 20% below the ten-year average.

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Key Activities

Swimming

Fatalities by Gender 2022

Fatalities by Environment 2022

5% 0%

37% Beach

Fatalities by Top 3 Age Group 2022

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Age Group compared to 10 year avg.

5

Tidal Water

10 Year Average 2022 Total

37%

Rivers

21%

Inland Still

0%

Pools

0%

Home

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity compared to 10 year avg.

6

5

4

10 Year Average 2022 Total

4

3 3

2

2

1

0

1

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

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Key Activities

Swimming

19

People drowned while swimming in 2022.

Swimming is the third leading activity for

drowning deaths. Tragically most people lose their lives within easy sight of the shore.

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Key Activities

Swimming Swimming or ‘playing in water’ typically refers to recreational

Age-wise, this activity group tends to be slightly younger than

activities that involve spending time in a body of water, such

other activities, with 63% of all swimming drowning deaths

as a pool, lake, river, or ocean. These activities can include

attributed to individuals under the age of 45. The age bracket

swimming, wading, or playing games.

with the highest drowning death rate in this category is between 25-34 and 35-44 years of age.

Swimming-related incidents account for the second-largest number of intentional drowning deaths in New Zealand.

It's important to note that although 37% of all swimming-

Unfortunately, 19 people lost their lives while swimming in

related drownings occur at beaches, there have been zero

2022. The data for this activity group closely follows the overall

recorded drowning deaths among swimmers who stay within

trends for nationwide data. Males were disproportionately

the designated flags at lifeguarded beaches. Therefore, if

affected, accounting for 95% (18) of all drowning deaths.

you're planning to swim at the beach, it's crucial to choose one that is patrolled by lifeguards and to swim between the flags.

Summer months saw a staggering 84% of all recorded

By making these simple choices, you can greatly reduce your

drowning deaths, indicating that weather is a leading factor.

risk of drowning.

The most common environments for drowning deaths in this category were beaches and rivers, each accounting for 36%

Always swim with a buddy, supervise children closely, and

of the total incidents.

be aware of your own swimming abilities and limitations. It's important to be aware of underwater hazards and to avoid diving or jumping into unknown waters.

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Key Activities

Underwater

Fatalities by Gender 2022

Fatalities by Environment 2022

73%

Fatalities by Top 3 Age Group 2022

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Age Group compared to 10 year avg.

3.0

9%

Tidal Water

18%

Beach

0%

Rivers

0%

Inland Still

0%

Pools

0%

Home

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity compared to 10 year avg.

5

10 Year Average 2022 Total

2.5

10 Year Average

4

2022 Total

2.0

3

1.5

2 1.0

1

0.5

0.0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

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Key Activities

Underwater

11

People drowned taking part in underwater activities in 2022

Underwater activities are most commonly

known as scuba diving, snorkeling, free diving or kai gathering when submerged.

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Underwater activity refers to any activity that involves being

Given that most underwater activities take place offshore, it's

submerged or spending time underwater. This category

not surprising that 73% of all recorded drowning deaths in this

encompasses popular pastimes such as diving, snorkeling, free

category occurred in this environment. Beaches and tidal waters

diving, and kai gathering while submerged. Unfortunately, this

were the next most common locations for underwater drowning

category also accounts for the fourth most common activity

deaths, respectively.

associated with drowning deaths, responsible for 11% of all lives lost in 2022.

Additionally, drowning deaths in this activity are more prevalent among older age groups, with 27% of all deaths occurring in

Clearly there is a lot of work to be done to better inform and

the 35-44 and 55-64 age groups, and the 65-74 age group

protect Maori males while participating in underwater activities.

contributing a significant 18% to the overall drowning deaths in

Maori males represent 45% of all lives lost in this activity category,

this category.

while only accounting for approximately 9% of our population. It's also worth noting that in 2022, no females lost their lives while participating in an underwater activity.

Increasing activity levels during different seasons also plays a significant role in determining the safety of underwater activities.

In fact, 63% of all drowning deaths related to this category occurred during the summer months, with the remaining 37% occurring in spring.

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Key Activities

Fishing From Land

Fatalities by Gender 2022

Fatalities by Environment 2022

0% 17%

Tidal Water

67% Beach

Fatalities by Top 3 Age Group 2022

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Age Group compared to 10 year avg.

17%

Rivers

0%

Inland Still

0%

Pools

0%

Home

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity compared to 10 year avg.

2.5

3.0

10 Year Average 2022 Total

2.5

10 Year Average

2.0

2022 Total

2.0

1.5

1.5 1.0

1.0 0.5

0.5

0.0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

0.0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

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Key Activities

Fishing from Land

6

People drowned fishing from land in 2022.

Fishing from land is an activity

group that includes all fresh and

salt water fishing whilst standing on land. This includes netfishing,

angling and shellfishing.

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Rock fishing or land fishing is a popular recreational activity

Furthermore, fishing from land also showed a higher proportion of

that involves fishing from rocks or cliffs along the shoreline.

deaths among those aged 25-34, potentially indicating a higher

While rock fishing can be an enjoyable and rewarding activity,

risk appetite among this age group around rough coastal waters.

it can also be dangerous, as water conditions and the nature of the terrain can pose significant risks to rock fishers.

Despite the overall decrease in drowning deaths related to fishing from land in 2022, it's important to note that this activity still

In 2022, drowning deaths in the fishing from land activity category

carries a risk of drowning, particularly for males. While fishing can

experienced a decrease of 5% compared to the 10 year average.

be an enjoyable pastime, it's crucial to prioritise safety at all times,

As with previous years, drowning incidents related to this activity

especially when fishing in areas where the water conditions can

were dominated by males, with 100% of all deaths attributed to

change quickly.

males.

The fact that the majority of drowning incidents in this activity The environment also played a significant role in the recorded

category occurred at beach locations underscores the importance

drowning deaths in this category, with 66% of all incidents

of being aware of and responsive to changing weather conditions

occurring at beach locations, while tidal waters and rivers

and tides. Fishers should take time to familiarize themselves with

accounted for 16% each.

their chosen location and its potential hazards, wear a life jacket and avoid fishing alone, especially in hazardous conditions.

The correlation between the warmer summer weather and increased rock fishing activity levels understandably leads to a higher incidence of drowning deaths during the summer season, with 67% of all fishing from land-related drownings occurring in the summer, while autumn and winter each accounted for 16%

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Key Environments

Offshore

Fatalities by Gender 2022

Fatalities by Activity 2022

4%

Swimming

63% 33% Underwater

Fatalities by Top 3 Age Group 2022

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Age Group compared to 10 year avg.

0%

Land Fishing

0%

Falls

0%

Other

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity compared to 10 year avg.

15

6

10 Year Average 2022 Total

5

10 Year Average

12

2022 Total

4

9

3 6

2 3

1

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

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Key Environments

Offshore

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People drowned offshore in 2022. The most lives lost for any environment.

In general, offshore areas are those

that are located far enough from the

shoreline that emergency services,

such as lifeguards or rescue boats can’t

reach the incident in a timely manner.

www.watersafety.org.nz

In the context of this report, "offshore" refers to areas of open water that are beyond surf zone, where the water is deeper, and conditions can be more challenging. Offshore areas may be subject to stronger winds, larger waves, and more unpredictable currents than nearshore areas, which can pose greater risks to swimmers, boaters, and other water users.

In general, offshore areas are those that are located far enough from the shoreline that emergency services, such as lifeguards or rescue boats, may take longer to reach in the event of an accident or emergency. The exact distance that constitutes "offshore" may vary depending on local conditions and regulations, but it is typically considered to be beyond the range of immediate assistance from shore-based services.

Offshore areas may be popular for activities such as surfing, fishing, diving or boating, but users should be aware of the risks and take appropriate safety precautions. This may include wearing appropriate personal flotation devices, checking weather and surf conditions before entering the water, and avoiding offshore areas during periods of high winds or waves.

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Key Environments

Beach

Fatalities by Gender 2022

Fatalities by Activity 2022

32% Swimming 5%

Fatalities by Top 3 Age Group 2022

9%

Underwater

18%

Land Fishing

14%

Falls

23% Other

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Age Group compared to 10 year avg.

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity compared to 10 year avg.

12

8

10 Year Average

7

2022 Total

10

10 Year Average

6

2022 Total

8

5

6

4 3

4

2 2

1 0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

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Key Environments

Beach

22

People lost their lives at the beach in 2022.

Beach is defined by Water Safety New

Zealand as an area of land with sand, gravel

or pebbles that slopes towards salt water. You

can think of 'beaches' as being the New Zealand coastline.

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In the context of this report, a beach is an area of land that

Staying safe at beaches typically involves a range of measures

borders a coastal body of water. Beaches can vary widely in size,

to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of water users,

shape, and topography, but they typically have several common

including lifeguard patrols, warning signs and flags, education and

features that can impact water safety, including:

awareness programmes, and emergency response procedures.

Beachgoers are also encouraged to take responsibility for their

1. Surf conditions: Beaches with breaking waves can create strong

own safety by checking water conditions, swimming between the

currents and rip currents, which can be hazardous for swimmers

flags, actively supervising children and following any posted rules

and surfers.

or regulations.

2. Underwater hazards: Beaches may have rocks, reefs, or other underwater features that can pose a danger to swimmers, boaties and divers.

4. Weather conditions: Beaches may be subject to changing weather conditions such as wind, rain, or storms, which can impact water safety and create hazardous conditions for water users.

5. Beach facilities: Many beaches have facilities such as Surf clubs, public restrooms, or parking areas, which can help improve water safety by providing support and resources for beachgoers.

These facilities also provide an ease of access that may lead to increased activity rate.

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Key Environments

River

Fatalities by Gender 2022

Fatalities by Activity 2022

33% Swimming 14%

Fatalities by Top 3 Age Group 2022

0%

Underwater

5%

Land Fishing

38% Falls 10%

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Age Group compared to 10 year avg.

5

2022 Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity compared to 10 year avg.

10 Year Average 2022 Total

4

Other

8 7

10 Year Average

6

2022 Total

5

3

4

2

3 2

1

0

1

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

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Key Environments

River

21

People lost their lives in rivers in 2022.

A river is a body of water that flows

downhill, typically from higher

elevations to lower elevations, and can range in size from small streams to

large, navigable waterways.

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In the context of this report, a river is a body of water that flows

3. Knowing the river and its hazards: Different rivers can have

downhill, typically from higher elevations to lower elevations,

unique hazards, such as rapids, submerged trees or logs, or

and can range in size from small streams to large, navigable

undercut banks. It's important for water users to understand

waterways. Rivers can be popular destinations for a variety of

the specific hazards of the river they plan to use and to take

water activities, such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, and rafting,

appropriate safety measures.

but they can also pose significant safety risks, especially during times of high-water flow or changing conditions.

4. Planning for emergencies: In the event of an emergency, such as a capsize or injury, it's important to have a plan for getting help

Water safety in rivers typically involves a range of measures to

quickly. This may involve carrying a communication device, such

prevent accidents and ensure the safety of water users, including:

as a cell phone or whistle, and knowing how to signal for help.

1. Understanding river flow and conditions: River flow can change

5. Seeking training or guidance: For activities such as kayaking or

rapidly, especially during periods of heavy rain or snowmelt. It's

rafting, it's important to have proper training or guidance from a

important for anyone planning to use a river for recreational

qualified instructor to ensure safe practices and techniques.

purposes to be aware of current flow rates and conditions and to adjust their plans accordingly.

Water safety in rivers requires a combination of awareness, preparation, and caution, as well as a willingness to adjust plans

2. Wearing appropriate safety gear: Depending on the activity,

or activities based on changing conditions. By taking these

water users may need to wear helmets, life jackets, wetsuits, or

measures, water users can enjoy the beauty and excitement of

other safety gear to protect themselves from hazards such as

river recreation while minimising the risk of accidents or injuries.

rocks, rapids, or submerged objects.

P.

42

www.watersafety.org.nz

P.

43

Regional Breakdown

Where are People Drowning?

94

Lives were lost in New Zealand waterways in 2022

The following section contains a

snapshot of data for each region in

New Zealand over the last 10 years.

P.

Regions

Northland

18

Lives were lost in the Northland region in 2022.

44

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

45

Northland

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

21%

20% 18%

26%

Tidal Water

33% Beach 15%

Rivers

7%

Inland Still

3%

Pools

5%

Home

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 50

Swimming

11%

Underwater

12%

Land Fishing

21%

Falls

9%

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 20

40

15 30

10 20

5

10

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Auckland

17

Lives were lost in the Auckland region in 2022.

46

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

47

Auckland

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

10%

31%

23% Tidal Water

27%

35% Beach Rivers

5%

Underwater

3%

Inland Still

7%

Land Fishing

12%

Pools

21%

Falls

3%

Home

8%

Other

13%

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 50

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 25

40

20

30

15

20

10

10

5

0

Swimming

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Waikato

11

Lives were lost in the Waikato region in 2022.

48

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

49

Waikato

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

9% 10%

37% Tidal Water

12%

27% Beach 40% Rivers 11%

Inland Still

2%

Pools

2%

Home

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 25

40

20

30

15

20

10

10

5

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

6%

Underwater

13%

Land Fishing

15%

Falls

17%

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022

50

0

Swimming

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Bay of Plenty

9

Lives were lost in the Bay of Plenty region in 2022.

50

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

51

Bay of Plenty

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

8% 16%

25%

26% Beach 16%

Rivers

19%

Inland Still

16%

Pools

0%

Home

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 30

Swimming

27%

Tidal Water

5%

Underwater

6%

Land Fishing

21%

Falls

16%

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 15

25

12

20 9

15 6

10

3

5

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Gisborne

2

Lives were lost in the Gisborne region in 2022.

52

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

53

Gisborne

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

17% 0%

Swimming

6% Tidal Water

11%

50% Beach 17%

Rivers

11%

Inland Still

6%

Pools

0%

Home

39% Underwater 0%

22%

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 12

Land Fishing

22% Falls Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 5

10

4

8 3

6 2

4

1

2

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Hawke's Bay

6

Lives were lost in the Hawke's Bay region in 2022.

54

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

55

Hawke's Bay

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

19% 9%

Swimming

14% Tidal Water

12%

35% Beach 16%

Rivers

2%

Inland Still

0%

Pools

9%

Home

16%

Underwater

5%

Land Fishing

35% Falls 19%

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022

20

8

15

6

7

5 4

10

3 2

5

1 0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Taranaki

0

Lives were lost in the Hawke's Bay region in 2022.

56

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

57

Taranaki

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

19%

Swimming

13%

13%

Tidal Water

13%

Beach

31%

Rivers

6%

Inland Still

0%

Pools

19%

Home

25% Underwater

0%

Land Fishing

31%

Falls

25% Other

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 12

6%

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 4.0 3.5

10

3.0

8

2.5

6

2.0 1.5

4

1.0

2

0

0.5 Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0.0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Manawatu - Wanganui

3

Lives were lost in the Manawatu region in 2022.

58

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

59

Manawatu-Wanganui

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

0%

62% Swimming

0%

Tidal Water

13%

Beach

10%

63% Rivers 0%

Inland Still

10%

Pools

13%

Home

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 12

5%

Underwater

0%

Land Fishing

10%

Falls

14%

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 8 7

10

6

8

5

6

4 3

4

2

2

0

1 Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Wellington

7

Lives were lost in the Wellington region in 2022.

60

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

61

Wellington

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

17%

Swimming

17%

27% Tidal Water

18%

24% Beach 17%

Rivers

5%

Inland Still

5%

Pools

6%

Home

Underwater

3%

Land Fishing

33% Falls 15%

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 30

14%

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 15

25

12

20 9

15 6

10

3

5

0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Marlborough

2

Lives were lost in the Marlborough region in 2022.

62

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

63

Marlborough

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

41%

8%

36% Tidal Water 0%

Beach

8%

Rivers

0%

Inland Still

8%

Pools

8%

23% Underwater 0%

Land Fishing

46% Falls 8%

Home

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 12

Swimming

23%

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 4.0 3.5

10

3.0

8

2.5

6

2.0 1.5

4

1.0

2

0

0.5 Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0.0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Tasman

2

Lives were lost in the Tasman region in 2022.

64

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

65

Tasman

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

0% 8%

42% Swimming Tidal Water

8%

33% Beach 58% Rivers 0%

Inland Still

0%

Pools

0%

Home

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 8

17%

Underwater

0%

Land Fishing

17%

Falls

17%

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 3.0

7

2.5

6 2.0

5 4

1.5

3

1.0

2 0.5

1 0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0.0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Canterbury

10

Lives were lost in the Canterbury region in 2022.

66

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

67

Canterbury

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

22%

Swimming

9%

4%

Tidal Water

12%

Beach

13%

Rivers

18%

24% Inland Still 10%

Pools

13%

Home

Underwater

4%

Land Fishing

42% Falls 18%

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 40

9%

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 15

35 12

30 25

9

20 6

15 10

3

5 0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

West Coast

1

Life was lost in the West Coast region in 2022.

68

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

69

West Coast

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

7% 11%

Tidal Water

15%

Beach

22%

56% Rivers 7%

Inland Still

4%

Pools

0%

Home

0%

Underwater

4%

Land Fishing

22% Falls 41%

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 20

Swimming

11%

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 6

5

15

4 10

3

2

5

1 0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Otago

4

Lives were lost in the Otago region in 2022.

70

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

71

Otago

10 Year Snapshot

Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

11%

Swimming

9%

13%

Tidal Water

7%

Beach

23%

30% Rivers 19%

Inland Still

4%

Pools

6%

Home

Underwater

8%

Land Fishing

28% Falls 17%

Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 35

15%

Other

Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022 10

30 8

25 6

20 15

4

10 2

5 0

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Regions

Southland

2

Lives were lost in the Southland region in 2022.

72

P.

www.watersafety.org.nz

73

Southland

10 Year Snapshot

Southland Fatalities 2022 vs 10 Year Average

Southland Fatalities by Gender 2012-2022

Southland Fatalities by Environment 2012-2022

Southland Fatalities by Activity 2012-2022

22%

6%

16%

Tidal Water

19%

Beach

41%

25% Rivers 19%

Inland Still

0%

Pools

0%

Home

Southland Drowning Fatalities by Ethnicity 2012-2022 10

12

8

9

6

6

4

3

2

Asian

Maori

NZ European

Other

Pasifika

Unknown

19%

Falls

6%

Other

13%

Underwater

16%

Land Fishing

Southland Drowning Fatalities by Age Group 2012-2022

15

0

Swimming

0

00-05

05-14

15-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65-74

75+

P.

Water Safety New Zealand

Contact Water Safety New Zealand Water Safety New Zealand | PO Box 834 | Wellington 6140 Old Bank Arcade| 98

Customhouse Quay | Level 2 | Wellington 6011

74