New national lifejacket law in force this Labour Weekend
People heading out this Labour Weekend on Marlborough’s waterways are reminded to put their lifejacket on before they get underway.
The Maritime Transport (Lifejackets on Recreational Craft) Amendment Act came into force on 9 October marking an important step towards reducing preventable deaths and injuries on New Zealand waterways.
People on recreational craft six metres or less in length must wear a properly fitted lifejacket while the craft is underway. The requirement covers a wide range of vessels including jet skis, dinghies, kayaks, paddleboards, sailboats and motorboats.
Marlborough Harbourmaster Jake Oliver said the advent of national legislation confirmed the Navigation Safety Bylaw implemented by the Marlborough District Council in 2025 was “best practice”.
"This requirement is not new for Marlborough’s waterways, but we want people to be aware of the change and to make lifejacket wearing part of their routine every time they head out on the water.
“The new requirement sits alongside existing national lifejacket rules, which remain in place. This includes the requirement to wear lifejackets during periods of heightened risk, regardless of vessel size, including when a person is being towed.
"Lifejackets save lives. Wearing a lifejacket is one of the simplest and most effective things people can do to improve their chances of survival if they unexpectedly end up in the water,” Jake said.
Maritime authorities including Marlborough’s Nautical and Coastal team will be taking an education-first approach during the initial implementation period.
For more information on Council’s Navigation Safety Bylaw go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/environment/harbours/navigation-bylaw
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Hot and dry summer ahead - be prepared
With predictions of a strong El Niño summer heading Marlborough’s way, it makes sense to look ahead and make sure you’re prepared.
Earth Sciences has declared an El Niño event which, for Marlborough, means a dry, windy and hot summer with high evapotranspiration rates. It could mean drought conditions for farmers and a high fire risk in rural areas.
Emergency Services Manager Matt Kerr said the El Niño summer could mean water restrictions, wildfire risk, extreme heat and prolonged power outages.
He advised that one of the best things people can do is prepare.
“Given the forecast, it makes sense to be prepared. People are aware of what to do in an earthquake or tsunami and a lot of the same principles apply for other hazards. Talk with your household about your preparedness for situations such as a wildfire close by, windfallen trees blocking your road and prolonged periods without power.”
“What would you need if you had to evacuate at short notice?”
Those living on rural and Sounds properties or near parks and reserves are encouraged to make sure dry vegetation is removed ahead of time to reduce fire risk.
“What we need to avoid over the spring and summer period is poor judgement or a lack of awareness to lead to a fire breaking out and impacting our communities and visitors, particularly over the holiday season,” Mr Kerr said.
The popular Wither Hills Farm Park is grazed to keep vegetation under control and fire risk is assessed regularly. In previously hot and dry years access to the park has been restricted.
MPI has detailed guidance for farmers, lifestyle and small block holders. Go to www.mpi.govt.nz/funding-rural-support/adverse-events/preparing-for-el-nino and for health information go to www.healthnz.govt.nz/el-nino
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Free Safer Boating Workshops in Picton
If it floats, this workshop is for you.
Council’s Harbours team is running free Safer Boating Workshops in Picton this summer for recreational water users, from powerboat and sailboat operators to jet skiers, kayakers and paddleboarders.
The sessions cover pre-departure checks, the responsibilities of the person in charge, safe navigation and maritime rules, plus local knowledge for popular spots around the Marlborough Sounds. A light lunch is included.
There are multiple workshops scheduled between November and March, but places are limited. Book your spot here: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/safer-boating-workshop5/picton
