What this means if you're visiting
💡 Stay away from the water's edge in winter, and never swim alone — cold water kills quickly.
A person has died after a drowning incident in Queenstown. The exact location and circumstances are not yet public, but emergency services responded to a water-related incident. This is the second fatal water incident in the region in recent days, following a separate death at Kingston. The Coroner is investigating.
Winter waters in Queenstown are dangerously cold, with lakes and rivers at near-freezing temperatures. Even strong swimmers can be incapacitated within minutes. The risk is higher for those unfamiliar with local conditions, such as tourists underestimating currents or cold shock.
**Q: What should I do if I see someone in trouble in the water in Queenstown?** **A: Call 111 immediately. Do not enter the water yourself unless you are a trained rescuer. Throw a flotation device if available, and keep the person in sight until help arrives.**
No further details have been released, but authorities urge everyone to exercise extreme caution near water, especially in winter. The community is reminded to wear lifejackets on boats and never swim alone.
The investigation is ongoing. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased.
Source: NZ HeraldWinter's freezing lake temperatures make drowning a very real risk for skiers and sightseers alike.
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