Get your ship sorted before you hit the water

Coastguard New Zealand is asking boaties around the country to get prepared before they go out on the water this weekend, amidst the lifting of level 3 restrictions on boating.

While level 2 came into effect last night, the weather over the weekend is looking favourable and Coastguard is expecting un-seasonally high boating activity as a result.

“With many boats having spent the last 7 weeks parked up in driveways and stationary in marina’s, it pays to check your engines and replace old fuel with clean, fresh fuel,” says Coastguard CEO Callum Gillespie.

“Don’t forget to charge your batteries either. The AA had a record day of callouts after the lockdown, with 80 percent of those callouts for flat batteries that hadn’t been started for five weeks. The same can happen to your boat battery.”

Amongst all the excitement and anticipation of a return to our favourite playground, safety still needs to be top of mind for all boaties says Mr Gillespie.

“A lifejacket never ruined a day on the water so make sure you take them and wear them. Have two forms of waterproof communication with you and keep an eye on the local marine weather, you can do this quickly and easily on the free Coastguard app.”

While Coastguard volunteers have been on call over the last 7 weeks, attending 15 emergency responses during that time, all proactive patrolling was suspended throughout level 4 and 3.

“Our rescue vessel and air patrol crews have also spent the week preparing their vessels, air craft and equipment to ensure they are ready for all rescue eventualities over the coming days,” says Mr Gillespie. “We share the excitement of all boaties this week and our volunteers are also looking forward to getting back out on the water.”

For Coastguard’s full level 2 preparation checklist, including how-to videos, go to boatiesbestmate.nz

ENDS

For more information contact:
Julia James
Coastguard New Zealand Communications Manager
[email protected]
Mobile: 021 435 804