Key Takeaways:
- A 21-year-old man from Tauranga died at the Poripori water hole on Saturday, the second incident in two summers.
- The death has been referred to the coroner, and the Western Bay of Plenty District Council will consider any recommendations for safety changes.
- Water Safety New Zealand warns that rivers remain one of New Zealand’s deadliest environments for drowning, and swimming in rivers can be hazardous due to submerged rocks, fast-flowing currents, and other hazards.
- Experts emphasize that drowning in New Zealand can often be prevented, but it requires more than just signage and warnings.
Introduction to the Incident
A tragic incident occurred at the Poripori water hole on Saturday, resulting in the death of a 21-year-old man from Tauranga. This is the second incident in as many summers, following the death of Jontae Christopher Alden in December 2024. The police and emergency services were called to the scene, and despite attempts to administer CPR, the person died at the scene. The death has been referred to the coroner, and the Western Bay of Plenty District Council will consider any recommendations for safety changes.
Response to the Incident
The Western Bay of Plenty District Council reserves and facilities manager, Peter Watson, stated that the council was not involved in the emergency response, as that was not its role. However, the council will be guided by any recommendations from the coroner regarding safety changes. Watson emphasized that any natural water body presents hazards and risks to those entering the water. There are several signs in the area warning of drowning risks due to water flows increasing from releases of the Lake McLaren dam upstream. A Contact Energy spokesperson confirmed that there was no release from the dam on Saturday, only on Sunday as scheduled.
Water Safety Concerns
Water Safety New Zealand chief executive, Glen Scanlon, warned that rivers remain one of New Zealand’s deadliest environments for drowning. Scanlon emphasized that Poripori, like many calm and beautiful swimming holes in New Zealand’s rivers, poses risks of submerged rocks, fast-flowing currents, and hazards from slipping and falling. He noted that on a warm sunny day, a river swimming hole may look like a great place for a swim, but it can always be dangerous. Scanlon also stated that in almost every incident, drowning in New Zealand could have been prevented, but it requires more than just signage and warnings.
River Swimming Advice
Water Safety New Zealand provides advice on river swimming, highlighting the differences between swimming in a river and swimming in a pool or the sea. River water is much colder than pool or sea water, and it is more difficult to float in river water. Additionally, if you are in a river current and try to put your feet down, your foot could become trapped under rocks. If you are in a river current, you can become trapped against obstacles and strainers or be swept into rapids, waterfalls, or weirs. It is essential to be aware of these risks and take necessary precautions when swimming in rivers.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The incident at the Poripori water hole serves as a reminder of the importance of water safety and the need for caution when swimming in natural water bodies. The Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Water Safety New Zealand will work together to identify ways to improve safety at the Poripori water hole and other similar locations. In the meantime, individuals are urged to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines when swimming in rivers and other natural water bodies. By taking the necessary precautions and being aware of the risks, we can reduce the likelihood of tragic incidents like the one that occurred at the Poripori water hole.