World Drowning Prevention Day 2026

Unite to turn the tide

World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July is a global moment to reflect on the impact of drowning and take action to prevent further loss of life.

The 2026 theme, Unite to Turn the Tide, recognises preventing drowning requires collective action from individuals and whānau to communities, educators, rescue organisations, government agencies and the wider water safety sector.

In New Zealand, the outlook is deeply concerning and Water Safety New Zealand is taking the opportunity to highlight that New Zealand could record more than 100 drowning deaths in 2026 unless the current trajectory changes

So far in 2026, 57 people have lost their lives to drowning - 18 more than at the same time last year.

Unless we turn the tide, DrownBase predictive modelling shows New Zealand could record 101 drowning deaths before the end of the year. That would be the first time since 2002 our annual drowning toll has exceeded 100 preventable drownings.

A concerning change in direction

The projected increase follows a period of long-term improvement in New Zealand’s drowning statistics.

Until this year, the 10-year average number of drowning deaths had been steadily declining. In 2025, New Zealand recorded 79 drowning deaths – seven fewer than the 10-year average.

The figures for 2026 indicate a concerning change in direction.

Familiar risks continue to feature

Although the number of drownings in 2026 are increasing, many of the underlying risk factors remain familiar.

Adult men continue to make up more than 80% of drowning deaths. People undertaking water activities alone, not wearing lifejackets and underestimating the environment or conditions also continue to feature prominently.

Understand the environment before entering the water

New Zealand’s beaches, rivers, lakes and coastal environments can change quickly.

Wind, waves, surf, currents, river levels, water temperature and rapidly changing weather can turn an apparently familiar environment into a life-threatening situation.

People should check the forecast and local conditions, understand their own abilities and consider whether the activity remains safe before entering or going out on the water.

Known high-risk locations require particular care. People should follow local safety advice, observe warning signs and speak with lifeguards or experienced local people wherever possible.

Marking World Drowning Prevention Day across Aotearoa

Organisations across New Zealand’s water safety community hold initiatives and activations to mark World Drowning Prevention Day and encourage conversations about drowning prevention.

Lasting change depends on people and organisations working together, sharing consistent safety messages and helping communities develop the knowledge and skills to stay safe in, on and around the water.

Drowning Prevention Auckland is encouraging New Zealanders to Go Blue for Drowning Prevention and learn how to Float First a very important part of water safety and drowning prevention.

Take part and help turn the tide

This World Drowning Prevention Day, we remind New Zealand that we all have a part to play in keeping ourselves safe around water.  

Join Water Safety New Zealand and other organisations across the sector to help build a culture of water safety.

Together, we can turn the tide on drowning in Aotearoa New Zealand.

This World Drowning Prevention Day 2026 please consider supporting Water Safety New Zealand.
We no longer receive funding from ACC and rely on the generous support of donors and funders.

‍

In the media

‍