27 September 2004

MSA to investigate kayaking accident

The Maritime Safety Authority will investigate yesterday’s accident where two men were reportedly swept out to sea after their kayak capsized at the mouth of the Waipaoa River near Gisborne.

Director of Maritime Safety Russell Kilvington says this accident points to an alarming increase in the number of kayaking accidents over the past few years.

There have already been four confirmed kayaking fatalities this year. This compares with four for the whole of 2003, and three each in 2002 and 2001.

“The men have not been found yet which is very worrying. We are also very concerned the men were reportedly not wearing life jackets.

“Wearing a life jacket is essential when kayaking. It greatly increases anyone’s chance of survival. It’s a message we can’t emphasize enough,” he said.

The accident investigation will shed light on the cause of the accident, and provide lessons for other boaties.

ENDS

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