Basics - Buoyancy Aids

You must carry a correctly sized, serviceable life jacket or buoyancy aid, which meets NZ Standard 5823:2001 or has otherwise been approved by Maritime NZ, for each person on board. They must be stored so that they are at hand and immediately available in case of a sudden emergency or capsize. This rule applies to all boats including tenders to large craft

As the skipper, it is your legal responsibility to ensure that life jackets are worn in situations such as when crossing a bar, in rough water and during an emergency. We recommend that you wear a life jacket at all times when boating unless you are inside an enclosed place such as a cabin. Most accidents occur suddenly with no warning. There may be no time to grab a lifejacket unless it is close at hand.

It is important to have the right type of life jacket. Consider the type of boating you do, the distance from shore you intend to go and the kind of conditions you are likely to encounter.

Lifejackets provide more than flotation. They allow a person in the water to keep still thereby conserving energy that will help avoid the onset of hypothermia. They also provide protection from injury in collisions or when running aground.

Talk to your supplier or contact Water Safety New Zealand, the Maritime NZ or Coastguard for some expert advice.

Rescue Buoys

Designed to help you stay afloat in the water, these include things like life buoys, life belts and buoyant cushions. They should be brightly coloured and fitted with a light, whistle or flag for marking position in the water.

Inshore Life Jackets

Designed to keep you afloat until help arrives. In rough water these jackets may ride up and a crotch strap is recommended. In children's life jackets a crotch strap is essential to stop them slipping out of it.

Offshore Life Jackets

With increased buoyancy, these will keep you in a safe floating position in rough, open water. Required for offshore and commercial vessels. They are large and not suited to everyday use.

ONLY INFLATABLE AND OFFSHORE JACKETS ARE DESIGNED TO TURN AN UNCONSCIOUS WEARER FACE UP IN THE WATER.

Wetsuits

These provide warmth and a level of buoyancy. They are not an approved alternative to life jackets, except for boardsailers and on dive boats within 5km of shore.

LOOK AFTER YOUR MATES, LOOK AFTER YOURSELF, WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET!

Buoyancy Vests

Designed for ease of movement if you are involved in activities like kayaking, sailing and water skiing. While they meet the legal standard, they will not turn an unconscious person to a face-up floating position in the water.

Inflatable Life Jackets

Available in, pull-to-inflate style or water activated. Suitable for all water recreational activities and are very comfortable to wear. They provide the same amount of buoyancy as offshore lifejackets.