Water and boating safety
Introduction
Stay safe while in or on the water this summer.Swimming, fishing, and boating are great ways to enjoy New Zealand’s stunning rivers and coastline. Stay safe while doing these activities and follow the code:
The sea can be unpredictable and can contain hidden dangers.
Learn how to stay safe in and around the sea: Surf Lifesaving NZ
Watch out for yourself and others
Always pay close attention to children you are supervising in or near water. Swim with others – don’t swim alone.
Swim between the flags
If possible, swim between the flags and in areas where lifeguards are present.
Be aware of the dangers
Obey all safety signs and warning flags.
Learn about rips, tides, waves and other hazards: Surf Lifesaving NZ
Rivers are unpredictable and can contain hidden dangers.
Watch out for yourself and others
Always pay close attention to children you are supervising in or near water. Swim with others – don’t swim alone.
Be aware of the dangers
Enter shallow and unknown water feet first and obey all safety and warning signs.
Make sure every boating experience is a safe one, regardless of whether you are on a large vessel, a small vessel, a sailing boat or a jet ski. If in doubt, don’t go out.
Boating safety code: AdventureSmart NZ
Life jackets
Take them and wear them. Boats, especially ones under 6 m in length, can sink very quickly. Wearing a life jacket increases your survival time in the water.
Communications
Take two separate waterproof ways of communicating to call for help if you get into difficulty.
VHF radio and distress beacons are recommended for boat users. Learn more about beacons.
Weather
New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the local weather forecast before you go. Expect the weather and the state of the sea or lake to change.
Avoid alcohol
Safe boating and alcohol do not mix. Things can change quickly on the water. You need to stay alert and aware.
Skipper responsibility
The skipper is responsible for the safety of everyone on board and for the safe operation of the boat.
The skipper is the 'captain' on a boat in the water, and in New Zealand that makes them responsible for the safety of everyone on board.
There is a high chance of falling in to the water and needing to paddle or swim while kayaking, canoeing or SUPing. Be aware of your swimming ability before heading out.
Watch out for yourself and others
Never leave children unattended when they are using a canoe, kayak, or stand up paddle board on the water.
Life jackets
Take them and wear them. Wearing a life jacket increases your survival time in the water.
Communications
Take a waterproof way of communicating to call for help you if you get into difficulty.
A distress beacon is the best way to call for help. Learn more about beacons.
Weather
New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the local weather forecast before you go. Expect the weather and the state of the sea or lake to change.
Avoid alcohol
Safe boating and alcohol do not mix. Things can change quickly on the water. You need to stay alert and aware.
Learn more about how to stay safe while rafting and kayaking rivers.
If you plan to cross an unbridged river, you must know how to identify an unsafe river, and where and how to cross safely. You should also be prepared for being unable to cross.
If the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe, do not try to cross. Turn back or wait for the river to drop - this often takes a few hours after rain, so be ready and pack emergency shelter and extra food.
A river is unsafe if there is:
- discoloured water
- debris in the water (such as branches)
- water flowing faster than walking pace
- rocks moving in the water you can hear.
Do your research on the place and weather
Check the marine weather forecast, pick a sheltered place or choose another day if the sea will be rough.
Understand the area you are fishing in – research it, talk to locals, obey all signs. If you are rock fishing, watch the sea for at least ten minutes before going onto the rocks.
Don’t fish from wet rocks – it means waves are likely washing over them.
Wear a life jacket and communication devices
Always wear a life jacket, whether you are fishing from a boat or from land. It might save you if you fall in or get washed into the water.
Take two forms of waterproof communication, such as a mobile phone in a waterproof bag, a VHF radio or a distress beacon. Wear them on your person, so if you end up in the water you can still reach them.
Take a friend and tell a friend
Fish with a mate, never go on your own.
Share your plans with a trusted person and ask them to call 111 if you don’t return.