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
Community Water Safety Education
Highlights from our April activity including Wai Wise, a global drowning prevention event at Vector Wero Whitewater Park and the new one-day SPLASH holiday programme.Wai Wise ProgrammeOne of DPA’s flagship programmes, Wai Wise, ran for the first time with Auckland’s...
Kāhui Ako Conference – ‘Together We Are Stronger!’ (Massey Schools Cluster)
The recent Kāhui Ako Conference for the Massey Schools Cluster brought together educators of all levels, from early childhood to secondary school for a day of connection and learning. Held on the first day of term two, the event was a rare chance for teachers and...
How’s Your Workplace Water Competency?
Drowning Prevention Auckland partners with workplaces around Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland and further afield to offer their employees invaluable water safety training. Whether your organisation works directly or indirectly in a water-based environment, a Water Competency...