As the summer boating season arrives, Otago Regional Council (ORC) harbourmaster Steve Rushbrook is urging safe boating behaviour all over Otago’s coastal waters, harbours, lakes and rivers.

Labour Weekend is traditionally the start of the recreational boating season, with hundreds of people taking to the water for boating recreation throughout the summer.

“If you’re pulling your boat out of storage for the first time in a while, take the time to do a thorough check of the vessel and all gear. Prep your boat, safety equipment, check the conditions and know the rules,” Steve said.

“For those new to boating, please stop, think, and find out about basic boating safety rules to protect you and your loved ones.”

Labour Weekend is part of Safer Boating Week, and also heralds the launch of the harbourmaster’s Summer Safety Campaign.

The theme of this year’s campaign is ‘The water is calling’, urging people to ‘know the ways of the water before you let go of the land’ and ensure they have a safer boating plan sorted.

“Safer Boating Week is about raising awareness and changing behaviours to see everyone going out on boats is fully prepared if danger should strike.”

ORC’s harbourmaster team has a new vessel which allows them to patrol both the Otago coastal area and Central Otago waterways this summer, but no matter where, the message remains the same.

“No matter if you’re on a power boat, jet ski or kayak, remembering the boating safety code is integral,” Steve said.

The Boating Safety Code reinforces five key messages:

1. Wear your lifejacket
2. Take two waterproof ways to call for help
3. Check the marine weather forecast
4. Avoid alcohol – booze and boats don’t mix
5. Be a responsible skipper

Are you getting out on the water in Central this weekend? Send in your best photos to [email protected]