The latest data shows 3200 injury claims have been made to ACC over the past five years in Canterbury.
Auckland has the highest number of claims (9210), followed by Waikato (3766). Wellington was fourth highest (1717).
ACC said population is a contributing factor to the numbers.
ACC has paid out more than $20 million in claims, figures provided to the New Zealand Herald show.
More than 21,000 people injured themselves or others while mowing the lawns between January 2015 and October 2019.
Nearly 140 of them needed amputations.
Soft tissue injuries - including damaged muscles, tendons or ligaments - were the most common type of injury, making up 15,848 claims.
Thousands of victims also suffered infected wounds, and hundreds had burns or dislocated limbs.
ACC injury prevention specialist Kirsten Malpas said when it came to chores like mowing the lawns, people cannot afford to be complacent about safety.
“Thousands of Kiwis are injured every year using power tools and many of those injuries involve lawnmowers,” she said.
ACC’s advice when mowing lawns is to always wear closed shoes, preferably non-slip boots, as well as protective eyewear and hearing protection that fits comfortably.
“Make sure any safety guards are in place before mowing and store your lawnmower safely out of reach of children when you’re finished,” Ms Malpas said.
Men in their 50s accounted for the most injury claims during the five-year period at 3075. The numbers for men in their 40s and 60s were also high.
Although authorities advise against children under the age of 12 operating a push lawnmower, 467 children under 10 needed an ACC payout because of lawnmower-related injuries in the past five years.
ACC says some of those claims could be as a result of someone else mowing the lawn.
ACC payouts have included cover for medical treatment, support for independence, rehabilitation and weekly compensation for loss of income.
FAST FACTS
- 3200 injury claims in Canterbury over the past five years.
- More than $20 million paid out nationally.
- 21,000-plus people injured nationally.
- 140 amputations.
- Men in their 50s suffered the most injuries.
Safety tips
- Children under the age of 12 should not operate a lawnmower.
- Wear eye and hearing protection as stones and twigs in the garden can become missiles.
- Wear closed shoes, preferably non-slip boots, not jandals.
- Pick up garden debris before mowing.
- Read the mower instructions.
