Parliament has passed the Maritime Transport (Lifejackets on Recreational Craft) Amendment Bill. Everyone aboard a recreational vessel of six metres or under will need to wear a properly fitted lifejacket, or another approved personal flotation device, whenever the boat is moving as lifejackets set to become compulsory on all small craft. The rule becomes law 28 days after the Bill receives Royal Assent, the final formality before it takes effect.
Associate Transport Minister James Meager is behind the push, citing 17 deaths in recreational boating incidents last year, 12 of them people who weren’t wearing a lifejacket. He’s called the deaths preventable and the new rule a common-sense fix that’s been a long time coming.
Despite the name, “lifejacket” under the Bill isn’t limited to the foam vest most people picture. It covers any approved personal flotation device, so inflatables and other approved PFDs count too.
Maritime NZ’s Principal Advisor for Recreational Craft, Matt Wood, is telling boaties not to leave it until the last minute. Check that lifejackets fit, that they’re the right type, and that they’re in good condition. Wear them, carry two waterproof ways to call for help, and check the marine forecast before heading out.
The Bill has been through a fair few hands to get here, originally introduced by Hon Cameron Brewer before Dr Shane Reti picked it up as sponsor. It’s the result of sustained pressure from across the recreational boating sector to get more lifejackets onto more boaties, and fewer names onto the drowning toll each summer.