Fatalities

Hospitalisations

Findings

Fatalities

New Zealand Europeans made up 44% of the drowning toll in 2018, compared to 60% in 2017.

40% of Asian drownings were aged 25-34 with 80% of those at Beaches (half were Fishing).

43% of Pacific Peoples drownings were aged 15-24. 86% were male. Over half (58%) were Swimming
deaths.

58% of Maori drownings were aged 35-54. 33% occurred Offshore and half were Accidental Immersions.

Hospitalisations

49% of 2018 hospitalisations were New Zealand European, 23% Maori, 15% Other, 6% Asian and 6% Pacific Peoples.

The number of New Zealand European hospitalisations in 2018 were the highest on record. An increase of 67% on 2017 and 18% on the 2013 - 2017 five year average.

The Asian hospitalisation rate in 2018 was the highest on record. This was an increase of 44% on the 2013 - 2017 five year average.

In 2018, the Maori hospitalisation rate was the highest on record since 2010. The highest regions for Maori hospitalisations were Waikato (21%) and Bay of Plenty (17%).