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Police issue water safety message following tragedy in Aitutaki
The tragic death by drowning of a 47 year old male visitor in Aitutaki has prompted the Police Service to raise awareness about water safety and the shared responsibility in the community to advise tourists about the risks in our lagoon environment.
The drowning this week is the third incident associated with kayaking, over the past year. The previous tragedy involved two men from the United States, who died at Muri late last year.
The man who died Wednesday got into difficulty after managing to help his young daughter, who had tipped into the water while also kayaking. Both are said to be non-swimmers and had ventured into a deeper area of the lagoon where there was a current. Unfortunately, the man could not be revived by the local authorities.
The deceased is a Taiwanese national and Police have liaised closely with the head of Foreign Affairs to communicate with the man's diplomatic representation in New Zealand. The body was flown to Rarotonga yesterday under charter and has been subject to a Coroner's report. The man had been on holiday accompanied by his wife and daughter.
Water safety throughout the lagoon area of Rarotonga and also Aitutaki has been widely promoted through campaigns and publicity material. However, there is a need for ongoing awareness, especially in terms of operators and accommodation facilities where kayaking is provided. Life vests are too often overlooked as an option.
All visitors enjoying the lagoon environment should be made aware of the risks, no matter how small and whether kayaking or not. Tidal currents, the reef, and channels, pose serious risks and should be avoided.
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