Staying safe

New Zealand's Water Safety Code

Keep you and your whānau safe when in, on, and around water. Get to know the Five ways to Survive.

Learn it, practice it, chat about it, and get everyone home safe.

Five simple Ways to Survive

Every year we lose too many New Zealanders in preventable drownings. Simple yet essential skills, like floating, can mean the difference between life and death. Following the water safety code can save lives.

Know how to float

If you get into trouble, float on your back with your ears in the water – this will increase your chances of survival. Relax and breathe normally. If you don’t know how to float, practice!

Find the safest place

Assess the conditions and look for dangers like strong currents. Find the safest place to get in and out of the water. Places with lifeguards on duty are the safest. Pay attention to warning signs and flags.

If in doubt, stay out

Check the weather before leaving home. If you’re unsure about your skill level, the weather, or the water conditions, it’s better to wait for another day. Things can change quickly.

Take care of yourself and others

Always go with a buddy and tell someone your plans. When wearing a lifejacket, make sure it fits properly.When children are in or near the water, a responsible adult should be within arm’s reach and watching them carefully.

Know how to get help

If you get into trouble, raise your arm and call out for help. If you see someone who needs help, call 111 and ask for Police.

National Coastal and Water Safety Survey

This survey helps us better understand how New Zealanders interact with open water – whether at the beach, lake, or river.

Find out more

Water Safety Code resources

We have a range of free resources available to download and promote water safety in your local area.

Posters

Download and share assets

Full safety messages - add your own logo

Full safety messages social tiles

Quick Tips gif

Floating challenge

New Zealand’s water safety community is calling out for your involvement to help New Zealanders Know how to float.

When things go wrong in the water being prepared is not a choice – it is a necessity. Our floating challenge is all about sharing simple lifesaving information. Emphasis of the #NZfloatingchallenge is on making information fun and accessible, but with a subtle but serious message that floating can help save lives.

Reckon you rate your own floating skills? Go for gold with the challenge and show us how! Challenge others in your organisation to give it a go or pass it on to others.

Download #NZfloatingchallenge information