As summer begins, New Zealand is on track to make 2024 a “landmark year’ for water safety with drowning fatalities down 26% compared to the 10-year average.
However, Water Safety NZ warns the upcoming months are the “most dangerous” as more Kiwis head to the water.
Sixty-one people have died in water-related incidents this year, 22 less than the 10-year average and 17 less than this time last year.
Chief executive Daniel Gerrard said the decrease was a “fantastic achievement and reflects the efforts of individuals, families, and communities across the country”.
“It’s worth celebrating, but it’s also a reminder that we can’t let our guard down.”
Stable weather conditions, quality water safety education and consistent safety messaging are among the factors influencing the “significant reduction”, he said.
The work was far from over, Gerrard said, as predictive modelling suggests one drowning every three days for the remainder of this year.
“Come on New Zealand—let’s keep water safety front of mind as we head into our favourite time of the year. This is a moment to celebrate our progress, while also continuing our dedication to water safety. Every life is precious, and every drowning is preventable.”
