‘No Excuses’ for Wellington boaties

14 February 2018
Wellington’s ‘No Excuses’ team is on the harbour checking boaties’ speed and lifejackets as part of the nationwide campaign.

This summer, Maritime NZ and nine councils have run the campaign, which can result in infringement notices of up to $300, depending on each council’s bylaws. Each council conducts ‘No Excuses’ over five random days until 31 March 2018.

The combined Greater Wellington Regional Council and Maritime NZ team spoke to a number of boaties during a short stint on the water this morning.

Maritime NZ Maritime Officer Matt Wood says that he was impressed the boaties knew the rules and were putting them into action.

“We’re driving home the basics – keep a safe speed and wear your lifejacket. Our research shows lifejackets save lives. Like a seatbelt, it’s no use unless you’re wearing it,” Mr Wood says.

“And if you’ve got kids on the boat, make sure they’re wearing a child-sized lifejacket that fits!”

The team has headed back on the water and boaties can expect to see them flying the ‘No Excuses’ flag in the coming days.

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