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Long-term data on drowning in the Gisborne region shows a “sustained reduction” in underwater drownings, according to Water Safety NZ.

Drowning while diving or snorkelling is tied with drowning after slipping or falling into water at six deaths each of the 19 people who lost their lives to drowning in Gisborne since 2015.

A Water Safety NZ spokeswoman said the organisation used 10-year averages to understand patterns of behaviour and drowning risk over time.

“Gisborne data shows a sustained reduction in underwater drownings — free diving, scuba diving and snorkelling,” the spokeswoman said.

“Tairāwhiti Gisborne stands out as a region highly connected to water that is showing reduced risk over time. This is an amazing community result.”

Water Safety NZ released its Drowning Prevention Report 2024 last month, revealing one death was recorded in the Gisborne District over 2024.

This was down from the 10-year average of 1.8.

The spokeswoman said data was obtained from police reports, coronial findings and other verified sources.

“For drownings in offshore environments, the location of a fatality could be recorded using GPS information from search and rescue services, or may be determined by the police report where the deceased’s body was recovered.”

Water Safety NZ can not speak on specific cases, but the Gisborne Herald understands the  fall under the Hawke’s Bay region as the 

Overall, New Zealand recorded 72 drowning fatalities in 2024 — the fifth-lowest annual total since records began in 1980 and the lowest since 2018.

As of the end of 2024, no drownings had occurred at Gisborne’s coast (the area less than one kilometre from shore) in the past two years and no one has lost their life to drowning while swimming in the Gisborne region since 2015.

Water Safety NZ supported the work of Ngāti Porou Surf Lifesaving Club, Swim for Life Tairāwhiti and Rehua Innovations in Gisborne, which all ran programmes lifting water safety competence, knowledge and prevention.

“Location-specific water safety interventions are helping people to increase personal responsibility and make smart decisions around water,” the spokeswoman said.

“Incredible work of groups, including the Ngati Porou Surf Lifesaving Club, Rehua Innovations and Swim for Life Tairawhiti help us to help the people of Gisborne to drive change.”

In the Drowning Prevention Report 2024, Water Safety NZ determined three actions to drive further progress for water safety: Scale up aquatic education programmes, target high-risk locations and mandate lifejacket use.

The best river swimming spot is one that has:

• A very weak current.
• An easy place to get in and out of the water.
• An even bottom that can be seen.
• A place you can get out of the water easily if you get swept downstream.

Safe diving and snorkelling tips

• Be prepared. Only go snorkelling or diving if you know how to use your gear safely. If you are unsure, start with a course or get an experienced friend to show you the ropes.
• Use the right equipment. Wear gear that won’t leak or break. Use a catch bag that floats well. It will hold your kai and may save your life if you need it. A good wetsuit will keep you warm, help you float and even help you stay out there longer. Use a dive flag, too, so other people can see you.
• Always snorkel or dive with a buddy. Stay close to your buddy in the moana, they can’t help you if they can’t see what is going on.
• Be aware of the dangers. Before you go in check what the tide is doing and how it might affect the area you are in. Is there a current to watch for? Are waves going to make things hard for you? If in doubt, don’t go out.
• Know your limits. The fitter you are, the safer you will be. Swimming and snorkelling are pretty challenging on our bodies. Build up your fitness at the pools first before hunting those tasty treats in the sea.