Maritime New Zealand Aims to Change Boating Regulations for Minors
The organization supports the idea that all boaters under 15 should wear life jackets in hopes of increasing compliance in boaters of all ages
According to a news release from Maritime New Zealand, the organization is making a move to require all boaters under 15 to wear a life jacket at all times. Not only is the move aimed at helping the safety of young boaters, but it also aims to encourage boaters of all ages to wear life jackets.
Though current data shows that there are high carriage rates of lifejackets in NZ, there are much lower wearing rates. A private member had a bill submitted by National MP Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga last month that would make the requirement a law, according to TVNZ.
A similar law already occurs here, as US law currently requires boaters under 13 to wear life jackets. The US Coast Guard Chief of Boating Safety, Jeff Hoedt, is currently in New Zealand consulting on and speaking about the project, according to the news release. Hoedt suggests that when something is mandated by law, it heightens compliance from the entire population.
For more information, visit: http://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/news/media-releases-2013/20131007a.asp