11.22am, 14 March 2014

Harbourmaster advises: secure your boat today

Weather forecasters are predicting very strong winds and rough seas from this evening through the weekend.

Winds can cause moorings to break, resulting in damage to boats and causing a hazard to navigation.

Harbourmaster Andrew Hayton says boat owners should check the moorings of boats regularly to ensure they are secure, so they’re prepared for bad weather.

“The middle of a gale is not the time to be trying to secure a boat. Boats that break free from moorings can cause significant damage to themselves and other vessels. It is the responsibility of the boat owner to ensure their vessel is secure.”

The Harbourmaster’s team often pick up boats adrift during bad weather. In more extreme weather it may be unsafe for patrol vessels and crew to be on the water. In these conditions boats adrift are likely to sink or become damaged beyond repair.

“When professional organisations like the Maritime Police, salvage contractors and Harbourmaster have their vessels securely tied up, it is a sign that to all that it is unsafe to go out on the water,” says the Harbourmaster.

To contact the Harbourmaster duty officer call: 09 362 0397 ext 0 (24hrs).

For weather updates visit http://www.metservice.co.nz/

ENDS

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