By SARAH STEWART
Scuba divers and boaties are blamed for a big rise in drownings this year.
Ten people drowned last month, all as a result of recreational boating. In total, 117 people have drowned this year, equal to the whole of 1999.
Water Safety New Zealand executive director Alan Muir expects 40 more drownings before January.
He said this was extremely disappointing after last year's record low.
The high boating toll came from a number of multiple drownings.
Mr Muir said skippers needed to be more aware of their capabilities, and must ensure their equipment was safe.
A recreational boat safety forum in Auckland on Wednesday will look at introducing legislation to ensure skipper responsibility and make the wearing of lifejackets mandatory.
Drownings increase
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