Source: New Zealand Government
New lifejacket legislation will save lives and reduce preventable harm on New Zealand waters this summer, Associate Transport Minister James Meager says.
Mr Meager is welcoming today’s passing of Hon Dr Shane Reti’s Maritime Transport (Lifejackets on Recreational Craft) Amendment Bill, which will require everyone on recreational craft of six metres or less to wear a properly fitted lifejacket, when underway.
“In 2025, 17 people died in recreational craft incidents on our waters. Sadly, 12 of those people were found not to be wearing a lifejacket,” Mr Meager says.
“These are tragic and preventable deaths. This legislation creates one clear, simple national rule for everyone to follow, which is a common-sense and long overdue change.
“Lifejackets save lives, and making sure boaties wear one while out on the water is essential if we want to reduce the number drownings in New Zealand.
“The changes will come into effect 28 days after the Bill receives Royal Assent, meaning the new rule will be in place for the peak summer season.
“Maritime NZ is leading coordinated implementation planning alongside sector partners, so people receive clear, practical and nationally consistent information about what the change means for them, their families and their time on the water.
“The message for anyone heading out on a boat this summer remains simple: wear a properly fitted lifejacket, carry two reliable forms of communication and check the weather forecast.
“This Bill has had a long history, first appearing on the Ballot in 2013 before being drawn in the name of Hon Cameron Brewer last year.
“I thank Hon Brewer, and Hon Dr Shane Reti who sponsored it through to today, as well as the safer boating communities and all submitters whose experience and commitment have helped shape this important change.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/02/new-lifejacket-legislation-to-save-lives/