Situated at the top of New Zealand's South Island, a stunning selection of bays, inlets, and beaches border Nelson Tasman.
The region is an aquatic paradise, with plenty of water-based activities on offer to delight visitors. But before heading out on the water, it is important to familiarise yourself with the Water Safety Code and the Boating Safety Code.
• Be prepared → Ensure you know how to swim before venturing into the water, or that you are wearing a life jacket if you cannot. Always check the weather and water conditions beforehand, and let someone know where you are going.
• Watch out for yourself and others → Always pay close attention to any children you are supervising when they are in or around water. Ensure that you swim with others and in areas where lifeguards are present.
• Be aware of the dangers → Enter shallow and unknown water feet first and obey all safety signs and warning flags. Do not enter the water after consuming alcohol.
• Know your limits → Challenge yourself only within your physical limits and experience.
• Wear a life jacket → Boats, especially ones under 6m in length, can sink very quickly. Wearing a life jacket increases your survival time in the water, and it is a legal requirement to carry a correctly sized, serviceable life jacket for each person on board.
• Skipper responsibility → The skipper is responsible for the safety of everyone on board and for the safe operation of the boat. Ensure that you stay within the limits of your vessel and of your experience.
• Communications → Take two seperate waterproof communication devices, whether that is a flare, locator beacon or satellite device, in case you need to raise an alarm.
• Marine weather → New Zealand's weather can be unpredictable. Check the local marine weather forecast before you go and expect both weather and sea state changes.
• Avoid alcohol → Safe boating practice and alcohol do not mix. Things can change quickly on the water, so you need to stay alert and aware at all times.
