2013 Annual Report

In August 2012, Water Safety New Zealand (WSNZ) announced to the sector that it would be undertaking a major review of its role and, with the support of Sport NZ, be positioned to lead the water safety sector in New Zealand. One year on, the review is now complete and WSNZ will commence the change process, to fulfil its purpose of reducing drowning in New Zealand.

There are few countries in the world that can match the rich and striking beauty that our oceans, beaches, lakes and rivers provide. These natural environments, along with our swimming pools, are the start of memories. He oranga to te wai – Water is Life.  Water stirs a range of emotions and memories for New Zealanders - from early swim experiences to diving, boating, fishing and many other recreational pursuits.

Our beautiful waterways - a playground one day and a hostile environment the next - contributed to 98 New Zealanders drowning last year. A further 176 people had an overnight stay in hospital as a result of an immersion incident. These figures are too high.

The water safety sector has a considerable responsibility to communities of New Zealand. Our effort to reduce drowning and provide meaningful water safety experiences for New Zealanders is of great importance, so we can all enjoy the water safely. Together, the water safety sector shape those important memories that help define us as a nation.

Our work to reduce drowning is substantial and our partnerships are fundamental to our success. The New Zealand Lottery Grants Board continued their significant support for water safety in New Zealand last year and we thank the Outdoor Safety Committee for their support.  Our commercial partners are also making a huge difference; Sealord Swim For Life and New Zealand Post’s Active Post Kia Maanu Kia Ora campaigns are impacting on hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders. On behalf of communities of New Zealand, we thank these organisations for their absolute commitment to water safety.

The last 12 months have signalled a strong shift in the future of WSNZ. Change is always challenging and there have been many other issues we have dealt with this year. Like many charitable organisations facing increasing pressure on income sources, WSNZ was not immune to considerably lower than expected grant funding. Our effort to reduce costs without impacting on community outcomes was significant, and at quite a cost to our financial performance.

The next 12 months present a watershed moment to the water safety sector in New Zealand. The opportunity to ‘break the mould’ and shape the future is squarely placed in the hands of the sector.  Now is the time to embrace change and take great strides towards reducing drowning in New Zealand and playing our part in helping young New Zealanders create memories to pass from generation to generation.

Sally Webb, Chair

Matt Claridge, Chief Executive