Warning for river floating
Safety tips for floating down the Waikato River
The rise in popularity of river floats on the Waikato River at Taupo¯ has sparked calls for people to be aware of the risks.
There are more drownings in rivers than any other environment in New Zealand and since the start of January there have been 15 drownings nationally including six river drownings.
One popular pastime in Taupo¯ over summer is floating down the Waikato River from the lagoon area below Control Gates Bridge, past Cherry Island and Spa Park to Hipapatua Reserve (Reid’s Farm).
In the past, kayakers and rafters would do the river float but the activity has grown more popular in recent years with the advent of cheap blow-up flotation devices. Record hot temperatures in Taupo¯ since Christmas have meant hundreds of people daily have been tackling the adventure.
Taupo¯ District Mayor David Trewavas says while it’s great to see people out enjoying themselves on the river, the trip can be more hazardous than people expect.
“A float trip can be great fun but do check ahead so you know where the exits are, always wear a lifejacket and don’t combine drinking and floating,” he says.
Freshwater is not as buoyant as seawater and the river has unpredictable currents that can catch even strong swimmers unaware. The river can change from season to season and the volume of flow can also change very quickly.
In several places, there are also snags just below the surface and overhanging trees that can puncture a blow-up flotation device. Floaters must also stay well clear of the water below Taupo¯ Bungy.
If people miss the exits at Otumuheke ¯ (Spa Park) or Hipapatua, there are only a few places to get off the river before the current will drag floaters over Huka Falls. People should ensure they look for the signs that point to where to get out.
Acting Lake Taupo¯ harbourmaster Jamie Grant is concerned about the number of people attempting the river float on blow-ups such as air beds without wearing a lifejacket. Alcohol consumption while floating is also a safety risk.
At the end of the float, some people are simply abandoning their flotation device and walking away, leaving it for others to clean up, Grant says.
Tu¯wharetoa Ma¯ori Trust Board natural resources manager Peter Shepherd is concerned about the amount of rubbish being deposited in the river by people on float trips.
“We want our wha¯nau and manuhiri to enjoy our awa and a healthy level of respect should be given to the river when doing so. Our visitors can help preserve and protect this precious taonga by taking steps to not pollute it or the surrounding areas.”