MO-1995-206

On Tuesday, 25 July 1995 an accident occurred during a winter white water rafting trip down the Shotover River, Queenstown. The raft failed to follow the intended passage down the Cascade Rapid and was drawn sideways into a rapid/waterfall known as The Toaster. One of the passengers fell from the raft, became entrapped underwater and drowned. Safety issues identified included levels and methods of training for rafting guides. The Safety issues identified are being addressed by the Maritime Safety Authority by way of the Draft Code of Practice for Raft Operators.