Source: Maritime New Zealand
These conditions are expected to peak between November and February, so please take extra care during this period by following these tips.
6 tips for staying safe
1. Always check the marine forecast before heading out. It’s more important than ever to check the marine weather and keep an eye on conditions – they can change quickly.
2. Be prepared to cancel or modify trips. When conditions are unsuitable, consider cancelling or choosing more sheltered areas. Please remember:
- conditions can look deceptively safe from shore when the wind is blowing offshore
- wind-powered or human-powered vessels may be particularly affected by unusual wind conditions, so heading into the wind may take longer or be impossible
- wind shadows can catch people out – for example, kayakers in the wind shadow of hills could find themselves in trouble when they leave the shadow.
3. Inspect your moorings regularly for signs of wear and tear. Replace worn ropes, shackles and fittings before severe weather or storms. Remember:
- additional movement and bouncing can cause extra wear
- currents and winds can pull on moorings.
4. Expect stronger currents and altered navigation conditions, particularly around harbour entrances, river mouths and coastal channels. Areas that are usually straightforward may be more challenging to navigate.
5. Take extra care when undertaking bar crossings. Plan carefully around tide windows and don’t attempt a crossing in marginal conditions. Stronger swells and currents, and changing river flows following storms, can alter bars and create unfamiliar crossing conditions, which may increase risk. Key things to note:
- increased rainfall on the west coast will result in increased water flow down rivers, so river mouths may be more challenging to cross
- bars may be shallower on the east coast.
6. As always, be prepared for anything. Before you head out, remember to:
- check that your boat is seaworthy and make sure your safety gear works
- follow the Boating Safety Code – wear properly fitted lifejackets, take at least two waterproof ways to call for help, and check the marine weather
- be alert for increased floating debris after storms or king tides, including logs, branches and other debris that can create navigation hazards.
More information:
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/21/staying-safe-on-the-water-in-el-nino-conditions-maritime-nz/