10 Drown in Holiday Period

Water Safety New Zealand (WSNZ) today announced that 10 people drowned during the official holiday period, 4pm Christmas eve until 8am on 5 January.

Executive Director of WSNZ, Alan Muir said that despite a pre-Christmas warning, almost all of the holiday season drowning incidents were as a result of aquatic related recreation.

"The saddest part about this is that most of these drownings were avoidable. Swimming in a safe spot, staying with your buddy, and getting the right training and advice are all important aspects of staying safe in and around the water.

Six of the 10 victims were swimming, two were scuba diving, one was fishing and there was one immersion accident.

"Swimming is a core life skill that everyone in New Zealand should have. If you can't swim, then you have no right being in the water".

"With summer really just getting started, there are going to be a lot more opportunities for people to enjoy our beautiful waterways. This also means there are lots of reasons to learn the key skills required to participate in your activity of choice" said Mr Muir.

A media release and full breakdown of the 2003 drowning statistics will be distributed later this week.

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