People heading out this Labour Weekend on Marlborough’s waterways are reminded to put their lifejacket on before they get underway.
The Maritime Transport (Lifejackets on Recreational Craft) Amendment Act came into force on 9 October marking an important step towards reducing preventable deaths and injuries on New Zealand waterways.
Under the change, people on recreational craft six metres or less in length must wear a properly fitted lifejacket while the craft is underway. The requirement covers a wide range of vessels including jet skis, dinghies, kayaks, paddleboards, sailboats and motorboats.
Marlborough Harbourmaster Jake Oliver said the advent of national legislation confirmed the Navigation Safety Bylaw implemented by the Marlborough District Council in 2025 was “best practice”.
"Lifejackets save lives. Wearing a lifejacket is one of the simplest and most effective things people can do to improve their chances of survival if they unexpectedly end up in the water.
"This requirement is not new for Marlborough’s waterways, but we want people to be aware of the change and to make lifejacket wearing part of their routine every time they head out on the water.
“The new requirement sits alongside existing national lifejacket rules, which remain in place. This includes the requirement to wear lifejackets during periods of heightened risk, regardless of vessel size, including when a person is being towed,” Jake said.
Tragically, an average of 17 people lose their lives each year in incidents involving recreational craft. The new legislation aims to reduce this toll by increasing lifejacket use and improving safety on the water.
Maritime authorities including Marlborough’s Nautical and Coastal team will be taking an education-first approach during the initial implementation period.
People are encouraged to follow three key safety steps before heading out this holiday weekend:
- wear a correctly fitted lifejacket
- take two waterproof ways to call for help
- check the marine weather forecast
The new law applies to recreational craft activities on all waterways across New Zealand, both inshore and offshore. This includes lakes, rivers, streams and coastal waters.
Further information about the new law, including guidance on choosing the right lifejacket for different water activities, is available on the Maritime New Zealand website.
For more information on Council’s Navigation Safety Bylaw go to our website.
