Coroner Urges Compliance with Speed Limits After Tragic Ski Biscuit Accident

A tragic accident on the lower Waitara River has prompted a coroner to advocate for stricter compliance with speed limits for watercraft. On November 10, 2021, Patricia Elaine Teresa Wilson Wirihana Takanini, a 40-year-old woman, died after colliding with a bridge support while being towed on a ski biscuit by a jetski.

Coroner Heidi Wrigley released her findings into the incident, which occurred near New Plymouth. She emphasized the need for clearer signage indicating that vessels should travel at a maximum of five knots near structures. This recommendation aims to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

On the day of the accident, Wilson Wirihana Takanini and a young girl were riding on a ski biscuit on the river. The jetski operator, Leevi Toa, was towing them when they approached the Town Bridge at a speed exceeding the five-knot limit. Just before reaching the bridge, the girl fell off the biscuit, causing it to swing towards the concrete bridge pillars. Toa shouted a warning to Wilson Wirihana Takanini, but she likely did not hear him.

According to Wrigley’s report, Toa was maintaining a “constant throttle” to control the jetski as they approached the bridge. When the ski biscuit came dangerously close to a pillar, Toa released the throttle to make a sharp turn. Unfortunately, Wilson Wirihana Takanini fell off and struck her head against the bridge support.

Toa immediately attempted to assist her and found her unresponsive in the water, not wearing a life jacket. Despite efforts to resuscitate her, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), she was pronounced dead at the scene.

The coroner concluded that speed was a significant factor in the fatal incident. Wrigley noted that Toa had reduced his speed to approximately 20 kilometers per hour as part of his safety routine but still exceeded the legal limit. She stated, “Had Mr. Toa been operating the jetski in accordance with the five-knots rule, Ms. Wilson Wirihana Takanini is far less likely to have sustained her fatal injuries.”

Authorities from both the police and Maritime New Zealand (Maritime NZ) opted not to charge Toa following their investigations. Michael-Paul Abbott, General Manager of General Regulatory Operations at Maritime NZ, confirmed that the agency would collaborate with local councils to enhance safety signage on the Waitara River.

In addition to signage improvements, Wrigley urged Maritime NZ to widely promote the importance of adhering to speed limits, particularly in areas near bridges and structures. Abbott highlighted the agency’s commitment to working with local and national organizations to improve recreational boating safety.

The New Zealand Herald reported that Wilson Wirihana Takanini had recently overcome cancer and was a beloved figure in her community, known for her musical performances alongside her children during the Covid-19 lockdown.

The coroner’s recommendations aim to raise awareness about boating safety and the critical need for compliance with speed regulations. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with recreational water activities, particularly in proximity to structures.

As discussions about safety measures continue, the focus remains on preventing future tragedies and promoting responsible behavior among watercraft users.