New Zealand is in the unenviable position of having the third highest drowning rate of the developed countries (3.3 per 100 000), only less per capita than Brazil and Finland (ILSF 2007 World Drowning Report), a rate twice that of Australia (1.5 per 100 000).

Drowning is the third highest cause of unintentional injury death in New Zealand for all age groups, but second highest (behind motor vehicle incidents) for the under-25 age group.  

Major progress has been made from both central and local government towards acknowledging the true societal and economic impact of these statistics. 

The Drowning Prevention Strategy is in place with ACC as the lead agency. There is a real need now to ensure that the principals behind this strategy in regard to recognition of past successes, collective and personal responsibility, participation, consultation and recognition of population needs and  differences are recognised and acted on. 

The vision of a water safe New Zealand free from drowning can be a reality - we must work together to ensure the leadership is strategic, representative and accountable and that the delivery of water safety is well resourced to provide quality, effective and services to meet community needs (see Regional Priorities).

ILSF World Drowning Report 2007 - Refer International Research.