Ahipara 2010 drowning raises joint concerns

Northland Coroner Brandt Shortland has welcomed a series of recommendations from Surf Life Saving New Zealand at the inquest into the death of 40-year-old Auckland man Ieremia Denis Galuvao at Ahipara in January 2010.

Mr Shortland found that, "on the balance of probabilities, Mr Galuvao died by drowning after he and his youngest son went bodyboarding directly in front of their holiday accommodation. Mr Galuvao, who was described as very fit but not a good swimmer, got into trouble when he tried to retrieve the bodyboard as it began floating away from the shore.

Two young kayakers, who were also holidaying there, tried to reach Mr Galuvao but waves prevented them from doing so. He disappeared from sight for a short time before the surf carried him in to the beach.

Efforts by the other family, members of Far North Surf Rescue and an off duty police officer to revive him were unsuccessful.

Nick Mulcahy, from Surf Life Saving New Zealand, presented a summary of recommendations, with particular reference to improving safety and information about the dangers at and in the vicinity of Ahipara. Those recommendations included extending Life Saving patrols, erecting water safety signage, establishing an integrated approach to emergencies, the priority being a meeting between Surf Life Saving, Coastguard, the Fire Service and the police, and the provision of an emergency phone.

The organisation also believed that coast safety material should be provided at 'frontline' camp grounds and accommodation, that site-specific information should be placed on local authority and applicable tourism company websites, and daily information signage at beach access points.

An incident report by Surf Life Saving northern region had stated that a low, falling tide exposed swimmers at Ahipara to holes and troughs close to shore, which could have contributed to Mr Galuvao's death.

Mr Shortland endorsed the recommendations, but acknowledged that SLSNZ had limited funds with which to implement them. Partnerships with councils and other local body entities would raise the profile of water safety in Northland, he added.

"I recommend that SLSNZ meet formally with local council (sic), Chamber of Commerce and business operators in and around the Far North area, particularly Kaitaia," Mr Shortland said.

"A collective approach to water safety in the Far North will benefit all those who come to Ahipara and the iconic 90 Mile Beach."