Floaters warned to be careful

19 Dec

Using a proper flotation device is key when navigating the uppermost section of the Waikato River. Photo: Dan Hutchinson

People are being warned to prepare well if they intend to drift down the Waikato River in Taupō this summer.

While many people successfully navigate the section of water from below the Control Gates Bridge to the get-out point at Spa Park or Hipapatua Reserve, the consequences for failure are high and authoritIes warn against the activity.

There are only a few exit points beyond Hipapatua before swimmers will get sucked into the Huka Falls.

Police, Lake Taupō Harbourmaster Jamie Grant and the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board all say the trip is more hazardous than people expect.

Every year, NZ Police and the Harbourmaster are called to rescue people on the river and drownings are not uncommon on that stretch of water.

Jamie says he’s concerned about the number of people who attempt the river float on blow-ups like air beds and pool toys without wearing a life jacket or having any means of steering. Alcohol consumption is also a safety risk.

“A lot of people don’t understand how dangerous rivers can be. Fresh water is not as buoyant as sea water and the river is unpredictable. If you miss the exits at Ōtumuheke (Sa Park) or Hipapatua, there are only a few places to get off the river before the current will drag you over Huka Falls.”

With Lake Taupō levels near their maximum, the summer may see higher than normal outflows down the Waikato River at Taupō, prompting calls for people to be aware of the risks.

People can go to Mercury Energy’s website to check the outflow levels from the control gates, which can be over 300 cubic metres.

WaterWater SafetyWaikato RiverHarbourmasterPolice

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