I've become accustomed to reading about trampers being rescued every few days, but this article about two Lake Wanaka rescues this past week is a reminder to be adequately prepared and cautious when venturing onto NZ lakes. I found this DIY adventure almost incredible. "On Wednesday a South American couple were rescued from the middle of the lake after venturing offshore in a plastic dinghy with just a willow branch for a paddle and no life jackets." NZ has amazing emergency rescue services, but this is no reason for some people to take such risks.
https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/wanaka...w-lake-dangers

Wow, just wow.

Would they do this in their own country? Why take such risks when on holiday and do they have no sense of caution at at all...
Reminds me of the Routeburn tragedy.

Tasmangirl wrote, "Would they do this in their own country?" That's exactly what I thought. I think they might, though it could depend on where they're from. I can compare the risks taken by people in NZ to people taking risks in California. One thing that would be different, is that in California, you might be expected to pay for your rescue and for emergency medical services, if needed. Here you have volunteer rescuers, ACC. It's truly amazing.

Those people are definitely candidates for the Darwin Awards.
http://www.darwinawards.com