Seven rescued after ‘river float’ goes wrong

Preparation is key to a successful river float. File Photo

Seven people had to be rescued from the Waikato River on Wednesday night, using a jetboat and a jetski.

A police spokesperson says they were called at 7.20pm.

Initially four people were in “distress” in the water near Hipapatua (Reid’s Farm).

“Police were alerted to a group of four men who had decided to float from the control gates down to Hipapatua Reserve, otherwise known as Reids Farm.

“The men only had basic inflatables and no life jackets.

“Towards the end of the route, the group lost buoyancy, began to panic, and were heard calling for help.

“Three people from a nearby tour group jumped into the river to assist the men, despite not having any flotation devices themselves.

“Police arrived and were able to communicate with the now seven people in distress and contacted the Coastguard and Harbourmaster.”

Using a jetboat and a jetski, Police, Coastguard and the Harbourmaster were able to rescue the seven people, who were hanging onto a tree.

Senior Constable Barry Shepherd says the incident could have had a far more serious outcome.

“We want people to have fun and enjoy the outdoors but there’s a safe way to do it.

“While its admirable that people tried to help, we don’t want any dead heroes.”

All seven people were brought to safety by 8pm.

“I commend the Coastguard, Harbourmaster and my Police colleagues, whose quick thinking and coordinated response ensured these seven people were safely rescued.

“This situation could have been drastically worse, and their actions prevented a potential tragedy.”

Police remind the public that for any water related emergency, always call 111 immediately.

At the beginning of summer Taupō Police, the Lake Taupō Harbourmaster and Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board highlighted the risks of doing the Waikato River float trip.

In recent years, there has been a surge in popularity of the Waikato River float trip from the lagoon area below Control Gates Bridge to Hipapatua Reserve.

The flow in the river can change significantly and suddenly and is controlled by Mercury at the Control Gates.

Any flow above 140 cubic metres per second is considered high risk.

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

“Every year, police and the Harbourmaster are called to rescue people on the river and drownings are, sadly, not uncommon,” the agencies said in a statement in December.

They advise that “only strong, fit, and experienced swimmers” should attempt the river float and a well-fitting lifejacket should be worn at all times.

People are advised to have a safety plan and a form of waterproof communication before venturing out onto any of the Taupō waters.

Lake Taupō Harbourmaster Jamie Grant says he’s concerned about the number of people who attempt the river float on blow-ups such as air beds and pool toys without wearing a lifejacket or having any means of steering.

Alcohol consumption is also a safety risk.

“Water doesn’t care how cool you are, which is why we’re reminding people to respect the river this summer.

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

Shepherd says relying on cheap floatation devices and not wearing a lifejacket can be disastrous if something unexpected happens.

“We want everybody to have fun this summer but keeping yourself and those around you safe, is critical. We want you to go home in one piece and not be in the news for the wrong reasons.”

People can check the planned river flow by calling Mercury’s freephone number 0800 820 082 and selecting ‘planned outflow from Lake Taupō’.

Top tips for staying safe on the Waikato River

Respect the river.

Use a safe, well-maintained flotation device (not a pool toy) and have a way to steer it.

Know your exit point (Spa Park or Hipapatua/Reid’s Farm).

Wear a well-fitting life jacket.

Check the flow before you go – over 140 cumecs = extreme risk. Call 0800 820 082.

Be aware of hazards: submerged logs, snags, currents, sudden drop-offs.

Buddy up – keep an eye out for each other.

Save the drinks for off the river.

Carry waterproof communication (e.g., phone in a sealed bag) so you can call for help if needed.