Water Safety New Zealand says four water deaths in three days is incredibly worrying

Separate drownings were reported on Saturday afternoon in Akaroa and Lower Kaimai.

Then on Sunday evening, a man died diving off Mahia Peninsula; and yesterday, a woman was pulled onto rocks unresponsive at Gisborne's Okitu Beach.

Water Safety NZ chief executive Glen Scanlon says this summer is already eight deaths ahead of the last one.

He says these are friends and family going to the water to enjoy time with their loved ones who aren't coming home.