More than 120 people have died in the Waikato River since 1980. Deceptively fast currents, hidden hazards and overconfidence make it dangerous for swimmers and rescuers alike. In 2018, firefighters using jetskis for rescues felt like a game changer, until FENZ banned motorised boats for water rescues. After local backlash, a separate entity was set up to run the rescue jetskis in Waikato. Officer Karl Lapwood from the Ngaruawahia Volunteer Fire Brigade spoke to John Campbell.
