With an average of 17 people losing their lives in recreational boating incidents every year, Maritime New Zealand is urging boaties, fishers, kayakers and waka users to check their lifejackets before heading onto the water this summer.
Maritime New Zealand and its safer boating partners are marking the 13th annual Safer Boating Week with a nationwide campaign reminding recreational water users that simply owning a lifejacket is not enough.
The lifejacket must fit correctly, be appropriate for the activity and be in safe working condition.
The campaign comes alongside a new requirement for everyone on recreational craft measuring six metres or less to wear a lifejacket.
A Lifejacket That Doesn’t Work Could Cost Your Life
This year’s Safer Boating Week campaign focuses on the dangers of relying on lifejackets that are damaged, incorrectly sized or unsuitable for the activity being undertaken.
Maritime NZ Principal Advisor for Recreational Craft, Matt Wood, says while boating safety awareness has improved over the past decade, basic precautions remain essential.
A lifejacket that is too large, too small, damaged or incorrectly maintained may fail to provide the protection needed during an emergency.
That is particularly concerning when accidents occur suddenly, leaving little time for people to respond.
Maritime NZ says approximately 17 people die each year in incidents involving recreational craft across New Zealand.
The organisation is encouraging boat owners and passengers to check their equipment now rather than waiting until they are preparing to launch.
New Lifejacket Requirements for Smaller Boats
The safety campaign follows changes requiring everyone aboard recreational craft measuring six metres or less to wear a lifejacket.
The requirement is particularly relevant to people using small powerboats, dinghies and other recreational craft.
Maritime NZ says the rule establishes when lifejackets must be worn, while Safer Boating Week reinforces the importance of ensuring those lifejackets will actually work when needed.
The organisation is also reminding recreational water users to select lifejackets suited to their particular activities.
Different types of craft and water conditions can require different safety equipment.
For inflatable lifejackets, additional attention should be given to servicing requirements, inflation mechanisms and expiry information.
Important Message for Māori Whānau, Waka Users and Fishers
For Māori communities, recreational boating and fishing are closely connected to the moana, awa, customary practices and whānau activities.
From gathering kaimoana and recreational fishing to paddling waka and kayaking, thousands of whānau enjoy time on the water throughout the year.
Maritime NZ says the growing popularity of paddle sports, smaller recreational craft and boating among first-time participants makes accessible safety information increasingly important.
The organisation is encouraging everyone, regardless of experience, to understand the risks associated with their chosen activity.
For whānau heading out to gather kaimoana, fish or enjoy time together on the water, checking that tamariki and other passengers have properly fitted lifejackets is an essential part of preparation.
Safety planning is especially important when travelling into remote coastal areas, where changing weather conditions and limited communications coverage can make emergencies more dangerous.
Seven Essential Checks Before Heading Out
Maritime NZ is urging recreational water users to take several simple precautions before leaving shore.
- Check your lifejackets: Make sure every lifejacket is the correct type and size for the person wearing it and the activity planned.
- Inspect for damage: Check straps, buckles, fabric, expiry information and servicing requirements, especially for inflatable lifejackets.
- Replace unsafe equipment: Service or replace any lifejacket that is damaged, unsuitable or no longer fits correctly.
- Check the weather: Review marine forecasts before departure and be prepared for conditions to change unexpectedly.
- Carry two forms of communication: Make sure both communication devices will work in the area where you intend to travel.
- Tell someone your plans: Let a trusted person know where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Avoid alcohol: Do not consume alcohol before or during a boating trip.
Maritime NZ says these basic precautions can significantly improve the chances of a safe outcome if something unexpected happens.
More People Taking to the Water
New Zealand’s recreational boating community is changing, with increasing participation in kayaking, paddle sports and smaller craft.
Maritime NZ says more first-time boaties and people from diverse communities are enjoying recreational activities on the water.
That changing participation means safety messages must reach people using different types of craft and with varying levels of experience.
The organisation is encouraging boating clubs, community organisations and whānau to reinforce safe practices before the busy summer season begins.
Preparation Could Make the Difference Between Life and Death
As warmer weather approaches and more people prepare to enjoy Aotearoa’s coastlines, lakes and rivers, Maritime NZ is reminding everyone that boating safety begins before leaving shore.
Having the correct equipment, understanding the weather, maintaining reliable communication and ensuring everyone wears a properly fitted lifejacket can make a critical difference during an emergency.
The campaign also serves as a reminder that experienced boaties are not immune to accidents.
Unexpected changes in weather, mechanical failures, capsizing and other emergencies can occur with little warning.
For whānau heading out onto the moana this summer, the message is simple: check your lifejacket, check your equipment, make a plan and make sure everyone comes home safely.
More boating safety information is available through Maritime New Zealand.
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