Drowning deaths in 2021 the highest in ten years

27 July, 2022

By Emily Talbot 

Water Safety New Zealand Chief Executive Daniel Gerrard says that all New Zealanders have a responsibility to stop preventable drownings. Photo: Unsplash. 

A Water Safety New Zealand report has shown that 2021 was the worst year for drowning deaths since 2011. 

There were ninety preventable drowning fatalities last year, equating to 1.76 deaths per 100,000 people, higher than Australia's rate of 1.1.

Water Safety New Zealand Chief Executive Daniel Gerrard told 95bFM's The Wire that all New Zealanders have a responsibility to stop preventable drownings. 

"Our drowning toll is something every New Zealander should see as a national disgrace."

Gerrard said people overestimated their abilities in the water and underestimated the risks and conditions.

"Children under five need to be within arm's reach and within sight when in or around water. You are more likely to get into trouble or drown when swimming alone, and you should always wear a life jacket when boating or fishing from the shore."

The report showed worsening drowning rates for Māori and Asian New Zealanders, as well as males and those over 45.

"The data does show that the younger generation is behaving a lot better, and actually 15 to 35-year-olds, which has been the riskiest age group in the past, has dropped by about a third," Gerrard says. "Whereas unfortunately older males, particularly in boats, are doubling."

An increase in people gathering kaimoana (seafood) in dangerous conditions has also contributed to the tragic numbers.

Gerrard said cost of living pressures meant fishing and diving for food have been a necessity for many.

Water Safety New Zealand is investing in programmes delivered for Māori, by Māori, including programmes for under five-year-olds and diving courses. 

Public interest journalism funded through NZ On Air