Information & Statistics

"Drowning - A Community Issue"

Drowning is a very real issue which affects all communities in New Zealand.  Drowning is the third highest cause of unintentional death in New Zealand, surpassed only by road vehicle crashes and accidental falls.  However internationally New Zealand has one of the highest rates of drowning in the developed world. Twice as many New Zealanders, per capita, lose their lives annually through drowning as Australians.

New Zealand Average Drowning Toll 1980-2007

• The annual average drowning toll has decreased significantly.
  • 1980's = 181 per annum average
  • 1990's = 143 per annum average
  • 2000-2007 (8 years) = 137 per annum average
• 43%* of all drownings are Recreational based. This means the victim was in, on or under the water for recreational purposes, such as boating, swimming or fishing, etc.
• 30%* of all drownings are Non-Recreational accidents, ie. drownings which (primarily) occur when there was no intention of entering the water.  Non-recreation accidents which result in death by drowning are a risk to all in the community.
• 27%* of all drownings are from Other Activities such as Road Vehicle and Suicides.
• 78% of all drownings are male victims.

2007 Provisional Drowning Statistics Media Release & Fact Sheet >> (84K)

Drowning is a significant social issue for all New Zealand communities which cannot be ignored.

A key recommendation of the WSNZ DrownBase™ review was that all statistical requests be formalised in order to create greater clarity and transparency for all interested parties.  As of 1st July 2005, all requests for information from DrownBase™ will be required to be submitted on the statistical request form.

Open the DrownBase Statistical Request Form (a Microsoft Word file) and save to your desktop.  Complete the form, save and forward by email to wsnz@watersafety.org.nz or fax 04 801 9599.   

Please note requests are usually responded to within twenty working days. 

Adobe Reader is required to view PDF's, click on the logo to download you free copy.