A slight improvement, but still too many Kiwis are drowning over the Christmas break.
Eight people have lost their lives in the water over the holiday period, which finished at six this morning. That's two fewer than last Christmas.
However, Water Safety New Zealand Chief Executive Jonty Mills believes that is still too many.
While for some the water is a playground, Mills said we all need to take responsibility and think safety first.
A number of these drownings were of people who got into trouble when they were by themselves.
Mills said it shows how crucial it is to have someone with you who can help, or call for help, if needed.
Even though the official holiday toll period is over, the holiday season is ongoing and will be for a several more months yet.
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