1 February 2016

MEDIA RELEASE

Jet Skiing behaviour complaints on the rise

Environment Canterbury has had a considerable increase in the number of jet ski complaints this summer, Navigational Safety Officer Gary Manch says.

The Harbourmaster’s office has received several complaints in the last two weeks about irresponsible jet ski behaviour on the water. Most of the complaints were centred in the Sumner Bay and Lyttelton bays, with one related to the Ashley River Estuary.

“Concerned members of the public are contacting us and we will follow up on all complaints made. Our aim is to educate people so they are aware of our bylaws. Where this fails, the last resort is to fine people who continue to breach the bylaw and put other water users at risk,” Mr Manch says.

“Many of the culprits do not know the basic rules of the water. Some of the rules are as simple as staying at 5 knots until 200 metres from the shore, and keeping to 5 knots when within 50 metres of another vessel or person. The rules vary in some places and it’s the responsibility of the skipper to be aware of them.”

Mr Manch says there are a lot of water users in Canterbury and that the rules are put in place for navigational safety and to ensure that everyone gets a fair go.

“If people do not know the rules they should stay ashore, or read our bylaws before heading out. These can be found at the Environment Canterbury website.”

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