education • research • advocacy
mātauranga • rangahau • whakataunaki
Drowning Prevention Auckland was formed in 1994 with a vision of an Auckland free from drowning achieved through the development of our water competence and changing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours.
Our connection with wai (water) is because we have some of the most beautiful water environments in Tāmaki Makaurau. We have the Waitemāta, Manukau, and Kaipara harbours; 411 km of rivers; 128 km of lake edge; and 3700 km of coastlines.
Wai is the source of life, but it can also be the cause of death through drowning. We need to respect and understand wai. Drowning Prevention education, research, and advocacy is paramount for Tāmaki Makaurau’s wellbeing and safety in, on and around water environments.
Our approach is across three channels of engagement and delivery – where we live (community), where we work (workplace), and where we learn (education). Through a range of innovative, evaluated and enjoyable learning opportunities we help individuals, families, communities and workplaces to be safe from drowning.
Mātāpono Māori Wai Haumaru
(Māori Water Safety Guiding Principles)
Latest News
New Lifejacket Hub – Bethells SLSC
Our latest lifejacket hub is now established in partnership with Bethells Surf Lifesaving Club. This is in response to our Rock Fishing project and our knowledge that many fishers still do not wear life jackets. One of the barriers to wearing lifejackets is the...
Engaging Newly Settled New Zealanders in Water Safety
At the end of March one of our Aquatic Educators, Leilani Fuemana, presented at the Virtual Pre-Conference Global Injury Prevention Showcase for 2021. Drowning prevention was a key focus of the showcase. Leilani talked to participants about Drowning Prevention...
New Early Childhood e-Learning module
On the eve of a nationwide strategy being released to tackle the country’s drowning statistics, Drowning Prevention Auckland is seeking to highlight the dangers that tamariki can get into without raising an alarm. The New Zealand Water Safety Sector Strategy 2025 will...