Stand-up paddleboarders in the Bay of Plenty are being warned there is no excuse for heading out without a lifejacket, as authorities report a sharp rise in safety breaches.
New figures show that total on-water safety breaches jumped from 430 last summer to 623 this season, a 45% increase.
Harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters says there has been a 150% increase in people using paddleboards without carrying a Personal Flotation Device (PFD), with breaches rising from 44 to 110 cases.
Across all paddle craft, including kayaks and paddleboards, non-carriage of lifejackets increased from 59 to 115 incidents, up 95%. Overall, failures to carry lifejackets across all types of vessels rose from 96 to 170 cases, a 77% increase.
Under the region’s Navigational Safety Bylaw 2017, anyone on a paddle craft, including kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, must carry a lifejacket. Those who fail to comply can be fined $200.
Bay of Plenty Harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters. IMAGE // Bay of Plenty Regional Council
Peters said while paddleboards are popular because they are affordable and easy to use, people need to understand the risks.
“It’s easy for someone to get into trouble very quickly if they fall in, lose their paddle, or are pushed offshore by winds or currents,” he said.
He said trying to put on a lifejacket in the water can be difficult, and people should wear one before heading out.
Harbourmaster patrols have increased their presence on the water and will continue to monitor the area over the Easter period.
People unsure of the rules are being encouraged to check the Bay of Plenty Regional Council website or pick up a “Boating in the Bay” guide from council offices or patrol staff.
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