Disclosure of Risk & Terms

Every participant must read and accept this Disclosure of Risk before taking part. It’s important to understand the risks and safety protocols so you have a safe and enjoyable time with us.

Acknowledgement of risks

I acknowledge that engaging in Freedive Aotearoa’s activities inherently entails various risks, potential hazards and unplanned natural hazards. These include, but are not limited to, adverse weather conditions, marine traffic, equipment malfunctions, marine life encounters, decompression sickness, drowning, barotrauma, hypothermia, dehydration, ear issues, sun damage and overheating.

Health and safety

I confirm that I have disclosed any relevant medical conditions, prior injuries and current medications to Freedive Aotearoa Ltd. I assert my physical fitness to participate and agree to accept any necessary medical treatment during the activity. It is my responsibility to disclose any conditions that may affect safety.

Conditions of participation

I agree to follow all rules and instructions provided by Freedive Aotearoa and its guides. Non-compliance or reckless behaviour may result in removal from the activity without refund. Freedive Aotearoa Ltd reserves the right to cancel activities if safety concerns arise.

Liability

I understand that failure to adhere to rules and instructions releases Freedive Aotearoa Ltd from liability for any resulting injury or damage. I accept responsibility for any damage to equipment or property and agree to cover associated repair costs.

Substance use

I confirm sobriety during activities to ensure full capability.

Disclosure of risk

All divers must acknowledge that they have read and understand this Disclosure of Risk statement. Divers consent to providing their name as their signature. All divers agree they are fit and healthy for the activity, have answered all questions honestly, and will follow the instructions set out by the instructors.

Safety and medical information

Some of our activities take place in environments that may involve time on board boats, in remote locations, or in specialised facilities. While our staff are trained in first aid and our equipment includes first aid kits and oxygen supplies, please be aware that only limited medical treatment is available on site. To help ensure your safety:

Disclose any medical conditions. Inform our team of any medical issues or physical limitations before participating.
Follow all instructions. Adhere strictly to the guidance provided by our crew and instructors during activities.

Weather and environmental conditions

We prioritise your safety by monitoring current and forecast weather conditions. Trips will be cancelled if conditions are deemed unsuitable. However, nature is inherently unpredictable. Please consider the following:

Boat safety. Treat all vessels as unstable platforms. Decks may become slippery when wet, and vessels may move suddenly. Take care when boarding, disembarking and moving around, especially on stairs.
Environmental awareness. Our locations offer shelter from the elements, but New Zealand’s variable weather means you need to manage sun exposure and have warm, dry clothing available.

Compliance with safety standards

We adhere to all relevant New Zealand safety standards, including those set by WorkSafe NZ and Maritime New Zealand where applicable. Despite these measures, certain hazards remain:

Equipment and machinery. Be aware of moving parts and heavy equipment that may pose risks. Pay close attention to safety briefings and signage.
Restricted areas. Stay within designated boundaries and avoid areas marked out of bounds by our crew. Do not interfere with crew operations such as anchoring or launching tenders.

Marine and natural environment

The marine environment offers unique and breathtaking experiences, and it also comes with specific risks:

Water safety. All water activities take place in water too deep to stand. We carry out thorough risk assessments for each site, but inherent risks such as currents, waves, rocks and variable water temperatures remain.
Water temperatures. Summer water temperatures can reach 22°C, while winter temperatures may drop to 15°C. We provide a range of exposure suits for adults and children.
Wildlife interaction. Respect all marine life as wild and potentially dangerous. Avoid disturbing aquatic creatures to prevent bites or stings.

Behaviour and conduct

Respect boundaries. Stay within the areas set by our team. Avoid climbing on rocks or entering caves, cracks or any other areas highlighted by the crew.
Shared experiences. Unless you have booked a private charter, you will be sharing the experience with other customers. Be courteous and considerate to everyone.
Marine traffic awareness. Be mindful of other vessels. Our crew will keep watch and display dive flags during water activities, but always look out for boats, jet skis and other watercraft to avoid impacts or propellers.

Equipment use

Instruction and guidance. If you are using snorkelling gear, freediving gear or stand-up paddleboards for the first time, listen carefully to the safety instructions from our crew.
Certification compliance. For activities like freediving, stay within the limits of your certification. Whether guided or unguided, follow all safety briefings and guidelines from our instructors.

Emergency procedures

Crew instructions. Follow all instructions from our crew promptly and calmly.
Safety equipment. Familiarise yourself with the location and use of safety equipment such as life jackets, first aid kits and emergency communication devices.

Acceptance of risk

By participating in our activities, you acknowledge that you understand the inherent risks involved and agree to take responsibility for your own safety. Freedive Aotearoa works to minimise these risks through comprehensive safety measures and professional guidance, but it is impossible to eliminate all hazards associated with adventure activities.

Marketing consent

I grant Freedive Aotearoa Ltd permission to contact me for promotional purposes and to use any media featuring me.

Cancellation, refunds and changes

Booking and reservation. Your booking is secured once payment is confirmed. The full amount is required to confirm your reservation.

Cancellation policy. 7 days or more before the dive or package date: full refund minus the eLearning pack cost ($99). Less than 7 days before: 50% of the total is retained. 48 hours or less before: no refund. No-shows without prior notice forfeit the full payment. If we cancel due to severe weather or unforeseen events, you’ll receive a full refund minus the eLearning pack cost, or the option to reschedule.

Multiple dive day packages. All dives must be paid in full before the first dive.

Changes and rescheduling. Rescheduling is free if done more than 48 hours before the dive date, subject to availability. If you can’t complete your scheduled dives for any reason, we can arrange new dates, subject to availability. We can’t swap booked dives between individuals. If you need a letter for a travel insurance claim about the value of your dives, we’re happy to help.

Refunds do not include any associated booking fees.