Police are urging people to take extreme care in and around the water after a deadly day yesterday across New Zealand’s rivers, lakes and beaches.
Two people have died, two others were injured, and another person remains missing following a series of water-related incidents on Saturday.
One person was pulled from the water unresponsive at Akaroa Harbour at about 1.15pm, before a second was recovered in the Lower Kaimai area in the Bay of Plenty shortly before 3pm. Both deaths would be referred to the Coroner.
A search was also ongoing for a swimmer reported missing in the Waikato River since 3.30pm.
One person was seriously injured after being pulled from the water in the Tasman District at around 3.50pm, while another person was taken to Waitākere Hospital in a moderate condition after a water-related incident in South Piha at around 8.30pm last night.
Police urged anyone going near water to take basic precautions to keep themselves safe.
Inspector Andrea McBeth said in a statement that each year, officers see “tragic outcomes” in and around the water.
“Waters around our country have strong and deep currents, that are changeable and unpredictable. If you’re not a strong swimmer with a life jacket, stay where your feet touch the ground and take extra precautions,” she said.
“Be aware of your capabilities in the water, and understand it might not be the same as your mates. Don’t go in the water if you’re not comfortable.”
Other advice included active supervision of children around water, knowing limits and the environment, swimming between the flags at beaches, checking weather and tides, avoiding alcohol and drugs, as well as making others aware of your plans.