KEY POINTS:
New Zealanders are being urged to learn to swim regardless of their age after a greater than average drowning rate last month.
In January, 23 people drowned - nearly a quarter of last year's total drowning toll, with the average January toll for the past five years being 10, according to statistics released today.
Water Safety New Zealand general manager Matt Claridge said 18 of 23 the drownings were recreational, the highest number since 1994, causing the organisation deep concern.
Nearly 90 per cent of recreational drowning victims were male and many were more than 25 years of age.
Warriors player Sonny Fai, 20, was among the recreational drowning victims after he was caught in a rip at Bethells Beach, Auckland, on January 4.
His body has not been recovered.
Of the five non-recreational drownings, three were the result of accidental immersion, one from rescuing others and one was a suicide.
Mr Claridge said the good summer weather had encouraged people into the water, but many lacked an understanding of the environment they were in, combined with poor decision-making and skills.
"Being able to swim is the basic fundamental skill that all New Zealanders should have prior to heading into the water.
"While it cannot guarantee safety, it certainly increases chances of survival. There is no point being involved in the water if you do not have the skills and knowledge to be there," he said.
- NZPA
