With severe weather likely for at least part of the Easter weekend, boaties are being encouraged to keep a close watch on weather forecasts and respond appropriately.

Waikato waterways are typically busy around Easter weekend and the school holidays, and acting Waikato Regional Council Harbourmaster Hayden Coburn says boat users shouldn’t ignore the weather forecasts.

“Before they head out, we are encouraging boaties to do their research about the weather by consulting sources such as Met Service and to maintain an ongoing awareness of conditions,” says Coburn.

“The forecast severe weather is expected to produce swells in coastal waters of several metres and can make bar crossings extremely hazardous. Weather can be extremely changeable and puts lives at risk.

“Don’t be afraid to alter your boating plans or cancel them altogether if the conditions are not right.”

Coburn says it’s also timely to highlight common safety issues that includes failing to wear lifejackets, towing without an observer, and speeding.

During the council’s summer boating safety programme, Operation Neptune, around 160 vessels were stopped due to breaches of bylaws.

“We want boaties to have fun with their friends and family on the water this Easter weekend, while at the same time staying safe and not endangering others,” says Coburn.

“It is the skipper’s responsibility to ensure they know the Waikato region’s boating rules and to comply with them on the water.”

Boating rules can be found on Waikato Regional Council’s website and the MarineMate mobile phone application and are prominently displayed on signage at boat ramps around the Waikato.

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