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As the mercury rises hundreds of people have been tempted to take a float down the Waikato River from Taupō , but authorities are worried a simple mistake could send them straight over one of the country’s biggest waterfalls, with potentially fatal consequences.

Mayor David Trewavas issued a warning in the wake of 15 drowning deaths across New Zealand since January, as more and more people take to the Waikato River, floating from the lagoon area below Control Gates Bridge, past Cherry Island and Spa Park to Hipapatua Reserve (Reid’s Farm).

Trewavas said while it’s great to see people out enjoying themselves on the river, the trip can be more hazardous than people expect.

‘‘A float trip can be great fun but do check ahead so you know where the exits are, always wear a lifejacket and don’t combine drinking and floating,’’ he said.

Warnings have also been issued by Acting Lake Taupō Harbourmaster Jamie Grant about the number of people attempting the river float on blow-ups such as air beds without wearing a lifejacket.

Alcohol consumption while people were floating was also a safety risk.

At the end of the float, some people were simply abandoning their flotation device and walking away, leaving it for others to clean up, Grant said. In the past kayakers and rafters would do the river float, but the activity has grown more popular in recent years with the advent of cheap blow-up flotation devices.

Fresh water is not as buoyant as sea water and the river has unpredictable currents that can catch even strong swimmers unawares. The river can change from season to season and the volume of flow can also change very quickly.

In several places there are also snags just below the surface and overhanging trees that can puncture a blow-up flotation device.

Floaters must also stay well clear from the water below Taupō Bungy. If people miss the exits at Ō tumuheke (Spa Park) or Hipapatua, there are only a few places to get off the river before the current will drag floaters over Huka Falls. Ensure you look for the signs that point to where to get out.

Tū wharetoa Mā ori Trust Board natural resources manager Peter Shepherd is concerned about the amount of rubbish being deposited in the river by people on float trips.

‘‘We want our whā nau and manuhiri to enjoy our awa and a healthy level of respect should be given to the river when doing so. Our visitors can easily help preserve and protect this precious taonga by firstly taking steps to not pollute it or the surrounding areas.’’

Water Safety New Zealand says the biggest issue with river safety is that people underestimate the risk or believe there is no risk at all; and also overestimate their ability.

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