On days like these, Aucklanders and visitors alike are drawn to the West Coast. The long warm evenings, the promise of a swim, the pull of black sand beneath bare feet – it’s no surprise these beaches fill fast over summer. But behind the beauty sits a reality we cannot ignore, Auckland’s West Coast beaches are among the most dangerous in the country.
Over the past decade, 39% of all drowning fatalities in Auckland occur at known high-risk or “blackspot” locations. And many of these blackspots sit on the West Coast.
"The risk is real," says CEO Glen Scanlon. "Our West Coast beaches are famous for their wild, rugged beauty and strong surf. They attract locals, tourists, experienced swimmers, and first-timers - but it's crucial to understand the dangers."
Summer is the busiest time on our beaches.
Summer is when most New Zealanders drown.
Warmer-than-average weather and rising water temperatures mean more people in the water, more often. Last summer, 86% of Aucklanders visited the coast, staying an average of 2.2 hours each visit. That love of the ocean is part of who we are - but it brings risk.
Aucklanders who drown come from across the community, 39% Asian descent, 22% New Zealand European, 17% Pasifika, 17% Other, 6% Māori indicating local understanding of the risk is important. All were adults; 72% were male.
The risk at Auckland’s West Coast beaches is well known. On days like these - when the sun is high, the surf looks inviting, and the car is already pointing west - pause and choose safety:
Know the West Coast blackspots and avoid them when conditions are rough.