New Recreational Craft Harm Prevention Strategy launched

Each year, around 1.7 million New Zealanders get out on our lakes, rivers, beaches and coastal waters, enjoying a range of activities on all types of vessels.  

Tragically, around 17 people do not come home safely to their friends and family.  

That’s why our new Recreational Craft Harm Prevention Strategy, launched in June, is so crucial. Maritime NZ’s Deputy Chief Executive, Partnerships and the Chair of the Safer Boating Forum, Sharyn Forsyth, says the strategy is the culmination of a lot of hard work and collaboration.

“As a Forum, it’s important we work together to prevent harm on the water.

“This strategy gives us a clear direction on how we will work with communities up and down New Zealand to ensure they have the knowledge to keep themselves safe,” she says.

A significant number of incidents resulting in harm are preventable. This is why we are focused on getting everyone to wear properly fitted lifejackets, carrying two ways to call for help and always checking the marine weather forecast. These are some of the best ways to stay safe on the water.   

Victoria Slade, the Recreational Craft Harm Prevention Lead at Maritime NZ, is excited the strategy is now launched and is looking forward to working with our Safer Boating partners to spread the important messages it contains. 

“The strategy was developed in collaboration with the Forum, and now we move into the important role of implementing it, so we can reduce instances of harm across the country,” she says. 

Check out our five-year strategy