How We Operate

Freedive Aotearoa is an SSI Instructor Training Centre, AdventureMark certified and Qualmark accredited, operating under a WorkSafe NZ-aligned Safety Management System. Where activities occur on the water, we operate in line with Maritime New Zealand standards. We hold a current Declaration of Conformity on file and run a documented risk assessment for every site.

Sacha Williamson is one of two SSI Freediving Instructor Trainers in New Zealand and the first female to hold that qualification, with 25+ years of professional ocean work including UN and AusAID Pacific projects, NIWA research diving on the Kermadec Islands, and a decade training instructors for Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust. Every course, expedition and recovery session you book runs under her direct oversight.

Disclosure of Risk

All participants must sign a waiver acknowledging they have read this Disclosure of Risk statement. Divers consent to providing their signature electronically and agree to complete a Diver Medical questionnaire honestly. Whether you are joining us for freediving, mermaiding, classes, workshops or other adventure experiences, it is important to understand the associated risks and safety protocols.

Acknowledgement of Risks

I acknowledge that engaging in Freedive Aotearoa’s activities inherently entails various risks and potential hazards, including 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 & 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.

Safety and Medical Information

Some of our activities take place in environments that may involve time onboard 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 forecasted 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 experience sudden movements. Exercise caution when boarding, disembarking and moving around, especially when using stairs.
  • Environmental awareness: our locations offer shelter from the elements, but New Zealand’s variable weather requires you to manage sun exposure and ensure you have appropriate 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 as out-of-bounds by our crew. Do not interfere with crew operations such as anchoring or launching tenders.

Marine and Natural Environment

Engaging with the marine environment offers unique and breathtaking experiences. However, it also comes with specific risks:

  • Water safety: recognise that all water activities occur in environments too deep to stand. We conduct thorough risk assessments for each site, but inherent risks such as currents, waves, rocks and variable water temperatures persist.
  • Water temperatures: summer water temperatures can reach up to 22°C, while winter temperatures may drop to 15°C. We provide a range of exposure suits for both adults and children to ensure comfort and safety.
  • 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: while exploring, stay within areas designated by our team. Avoid climbing on rocks, 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 in the area. Our crew will maintain a watch and display dive flags during water activities, but always keep an eye out for boats, jet skis and other watercraft to prevent accidents involving impacts or propellers.

Equipment Usage

  • Instruction and guidance: if you are using activity equipment such as snorkelling gear, freediving gear or stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) for the first time, listen carefully to the safety instructions provided by our crew.
  • Certification compliance: for activities like freediving, stay within the limits of your certification. Whether you are participating in guided or unguided sessions, follow all safety briefings and guidelines provided by our experienced instructors.

Emergency Procedures

  • Crew instructions: follow all instructions given by 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 strives 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.

Questions?

Email info@freedive.co.nz or call +64 27 373 3348. We’d rather answer the question now than have you worry about it later.