Aucklanders respond well to lifejacket rules

Auckland’s Harbourmaster is hailing the first weekend of the council’s new rules on wearing lifejackets as a success.

Harbourmaster Andrew Hayton says staff from his office visited several boat ramps to inform people about Auckland Council’s new navigation safety bylaw which came into effect for Labour weekend.

“What was pleasing was that most people were aware of the rules and more importantly, were wearing lifejackets.

“The job has just begun so our staff will be out on the water throughout the summer to ensure people are well informed and know the rules and their responsibilities.”

The new bylaw requires everyone on a vessel of six metres or less to wear a lifejacket and that they can only be removed if the skipper determines that it is safe to do so.

The council is also simplifying signs at boat ramps, to help with greater understanding and compliance.

For more information on Auckland Council’s Navigation Safety Bylaw go to aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/harbourmaster

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