“I don’t think anyone expected it to happen.”

Words from a friend of Napier man Alex Scarrow who drowned in the Mohaka River in December 2023 send a powerful message on the dangers of New Zealand’s waters.

Coroner Thomas’ findings released today (Monday 11 May) outline a series of risks involved in river rafting and the factors that contributed to Alex Scarrow’s death.

Water Safety NZ shares condolences with everyone who knew and loved Alex Scarrow and welcome the coroner’s recommendations.New Zealanders need to understand that making the wrong decision around water can cost you your life.

Chief Executive Glen Scanlon said almost every drowning is preventable.

“Just like the coroner, we in no way want to lay blame or make judgements. But lessons can be learned from every drowning. This death is more clear evidence that complacency and making assumptions around water can be a fatal mistake.”

Coroner Thomas sets out: “This was a recreational rafting trip for a group of friends. None of the statements (to police) mention a discussion, or plan of how they were intending to approach the Te Hoe drop, what line to take, or how to avoid the prominent rock. The statements describe being taken by surprise.”

Expert advice contributing to the findings suggest a Recreational Rafting Safety Code is required in New Zealand. Water Safety NZ supports the recommendation and welcomes the opportunity to work with the organisations involved with rafting safety to increase awareness of the safety information set out in the findings.

“Safety messages are crucial,” said Glen. “But they only help to save lives when people change their behaviour and make the right decisions.

“It is always up to up to individuals to make good choices in their preparations and actions on the day that prioritise their safe return home.”

Water Safety New Zealand says use of alcohol and other drugs around any aquatic environment is dangerous.New Zealand’s drowning statistics demonstrate the need to address risky behaviours, complacency, and the lack of adherence to basic water safety practice. Alcohol and other recreational drugs are often a factor.

Notes:

• An average of 86 people lose their lives to drowning every year • As of 8 May, a total of 41 people drowned in the 2026 year to date • An average of 19 people drown in New Zealand’s rivers ever year • A total of 17 people drowned in rivers in 2025.

About Water Safety New Zealand

Water Safety New Zealand is the lead agent for water safety and drowning prevention in New Zealand. For more than 75 years, we’ve made it our mission to support people and places to be safer around water.

We do this through focused data science, leadership, education, and advocacy. As a charity, we are dedicated to making New Zealand’s waterways safer for everyone.

Find out more: www.watersafetynz.org

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