Boating Safety

If your boat is sinking, someone is injured, or your life is in danger – call the Coastguard via VHF Channel 16. From your cellphone, dial *500 or 111. Download the member's App for emergency alerts.

Membership Rules

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Fleet

Supporting Sea Safety with four key rules

Life Jackets: Take the correct-sized life jacket for each person on board.
Check Marine Weather: Check the latest marine weather forecast prior to going out, and keep a regular check for changing conditions.
Keep In Touch: Always carry at least two reliable means of communication.
Skipper Responsibility: The skipper is legally responsible for the safety of all on board and must act accordingly.

Check the Coastguard VHF Channels

Broken down, need a tow, or looking to make a Trip Report? Use these VHF Channels to contact the Coastguard.

Check the current weather and sea state via your VHF radio - tune into your local Nowcasting channel for real-time marine weather information and forecasts.

You can also see the VHF and Nowcasting channels on the Coastguard app

Boating Courses for Skippers

A skipper is legally responsible for the safety of all on board. So we strongly recommend getting educated to avoid disasters. Coast Guard NZ offer a range of online and in-person classes for beginners and more advanced courses, too, as do Maritime New Zealand.

Safety Equipment & Advice

For a complete description of safety equipment and safety advice relating to boating safety, visit the Water Safety New Zealand website.

Membership Rules

All members must follow our simple rules to improve safety and efficiency for all members.

Membership Rules