As the summer holidays approach, many people will be setting their out-of-office messages and making plans to head out on the water.

The lakes are warming up, the fish might be biting, and kids will be eager to get on the biscuit.

Maritime NZ data shows that around 1.7 million people in New Zealand take to recreational craft each year.

“Being on the water is part of our DNA. Whether it’s offshore, on a river, behind the wheel of a high-powered boat, or on a stand-up paddleboard. We have a range of ways to enjoy our time on the water,” says Matt Wood, Maritime NZ Principal Advisor, Recreational Craft.

We want everyone to have fun out there—but, most importantly, to come home safe.

These are some basic checks everyone should be doing when heading out onto the water.

“No matter the vessel type, prepare it.

“Check the weather conditions, what the risks are in the area you will be heading to and the equipment on-board.

“Know the rules of the water. In in doubt look for courses to help build knowledge, such as a day skipper course.

“This is about being sure before leaving the shore,” Wood says.

To help remind people how to stay safe, keep an eye out for our spokesbuoy, Buoy-Boy, who will be out on the water around the country. Buoy-Boy will feature safety tips to help everyone enjoy the water responsibly.

Tragically, over the past decade an average of 17 people a year have lost their livesin recreational craft incidents, with countless more suffering life-altering injuries.

This year, 19 people have died in recreational craft incidents.

“Every year we receive notifications about people who have been run over, swimmers that have been hit, people being struck by a boat’s propellors, people falling out of vessels and injuries on unpowered crafts.

“Sadly, most of these incidents are avoidable.

“In in doubt, don’t go out,” Matt Wood says.

Recent Maritime NZ research shows that many incidents occur close to shore.

“We know a lot of people will be heading to coastal holiday spots and crossing bars—one of the highest-risk activities for boaties,” Wood says.

“If you’re launching from an unfamiliar spot, it’s critical to understand how the bar behaves, when it’s safe to cross, and how to manage the risks. Far too many people encounter serious issues while navigating bars.”

Note:

A New Zealand maritime accident is any accident occurring within New Zealand territorial waters (12nm), or involving a New Zealand flagged vessel anywhere in the world.

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