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Rivers are a living feature of this land we live in and having a healthy respect for them provides a broader understanding of the environment and perhaps gives one pause to stop and think before taking risks.

More people drown in rivers than in any other New Zealand water environment. Rivers present a completely different range of potential dangers compared to the ocean and swimming pools. When you combine this with the fact that unlike surf beaches and off-shore waters there are no agencies responsible for rescues in rivers you can easily understand why the need for river safety education is vital.

Swimming

Swimming spots in rivers can be great places in summer. If you pick your spot carefully and check it out each time you swim there you can keep yourself and your friends safe.

Swimming in a river is different from swimming in a pool or in the sea. The pressure of moving water is constant and can be powerful even if the river looks slow moving and calm. Swimmers can be pulled under the water by the current. Swimmers often underestimate the power of the river or overestimate their own abilities.

River Crossing Many people cross rivers while tramping or enjoying other outdoor activities. Most crossings are conducted safely and successfully but there is some element of danger in all river crossings. Using river crossing techniques can reduce the danger but no crossing can be considered absolutely safe. When you plan to go out walking, look at the proposed route on a map to work out whether there are river crossings on that route. If you do not wish to cross rivers or are concerned about bad weather raising the river levels then pick a route that has good bridges or does not cross rivers at all.

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