This strategy sets out priority areas for Maritime New Zealand programmes and initiatives aimed at promoting safety in kayaking over the next 3–6 years. The strategy was developed following extensive dialogue and consultation with the industry.
The key components and the primary focus of initiatives are:
Safety component |
Proposed initiatives |
Accommodation providers supplying kayaks for clients |
Guide to responsibilities |
Qualifications for commercial kayaking |
Recognition of national qualifications |
Safety systems for commercial kayaking |
Recognition of OutdoorsMark, Qualmark, and Register of Outdoor Safety Auditors |
Novice and intermediate kayaker knowledge/local knowledge for experienced overseas kayakers |
Kayak safety promotion |
Multisport and kayak adventure racing |
Kayaking event participation certificate |
Kayaking and canoeing safety strategy 2009–2014 [PDF: 44Kb, 6 pages]
These guidelines set out the minimum standards for commercial operations that are not required to have a safe operational plan.
The guidelines reflect the requirements of the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 and the Maritime Transport Act 1994. They are issued by Maritime New Zealand under the terms of its statutory responsibility to promote safety in the use of navigable craft.
The guidelines were developed with substantial input from the sectors concerned. We welcome feedback on operators' experience working with the guidelines, with a view to their ongoing development.
Safety guidelines: commercial kayaking and canoeing operations [PDF:113Kb, 6 pages]
Safety guidelines: commercial white water boarding operations, February 2009 [PDF:226Kb, 26 pages]
This document describes the role of safety kayakers supporting commercial rafting trips. It also describes the skills and experience required of those safety kayakers.
Comments are invited to assist developing a consistent approach to use of safety kayaks in commercial rafting trips. This could be achieved by way of a guideline incorporated in Maritime Rule 80B (as an advisory circular) or a qualification for safety kayaking.
Closing date for comments was 4 May 2009.
Maritime Rule Part 80B – commercial rafting operations safety kayaks [PDF: 122Kb, 7 pages]
If you require any further information about adventure activity guidelines, please contact Maritime New Zealand's Safety Auditor Adventure Tourism.