In this issue . . .

1. Introduction
...from the Director of Maritime New Zealand.

2. New roles announced following organisational review
A review of MNZ's organisational structure has resulted in a number of internal changes aimed at improving the services and functions it delivers to the maritime sector.

3. New Zealand plays major role in Tongan ferry rescue
One of New Zealand's largest search and rescue responses was launched by RCCNZ in early August, following the sinking of the Tongan ferry Princess Ashika.

4. World Maritime Day 2009
This year's theme: Climate change – a challenge for the IMO too!

5. Free boating safety checks go wider
A free boating safety check day is set to go to other centres in New Zealand.

6. New rules proposed for lifejackets and communications
New maritime rules for lifejackets and marine communications have been proposed in response to the ongoing number of fatalities in small recreational craft.

7. New guidelines issued under MNZ strategy for safety in kayaking and canoeing
MNZ formally recognises national standards for commercial kayaking and canoeing.

8. MNZ helps advance Antarctic protection
A major advance was made in the protection of the Antarctic oceans and coasts from the impacts of shipping.

9. Community engagement underway on QOL Review
The first stage of the Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) review of qualifications and operational limits (QOL Review) is underway.

10. Safety net for those at sea
MNZ’s Maritime Radio Service celebrates 15 years in operation.

11. Carenza crew praise rescuers
Auckland skipper Dr Charles Bradfield, his wife Joy and their six children had nothing but praise for the international effort that saw them rescued off their yacht in heavy seas 203 nautical miles north of North Cape in July.

12. Fit and proper person requirements update
An update on MNZ's improved process for vetting applicants and holders of maritime documents.

13. Maritime and marine protection rule amendments update
An outline of the amendments to maritime rules and marine protection rules that came into force on 30 July 2009.

14. Don't txt n boat
MNZ warns the maritime community of the dangers of using mobile phones on the water.

15. Cold water survival expert to visit
Professor Michael Tipton will visit New Zealand later this year to share his cold water survival knowledge and experience.

16. Use of electronic charts
Marine guidance notice no. 8 updated.

17. Iceberg in Wellington harbour?
A fake iceberg anchored in Wellington’s Oriental Bay last month drew attention to climate change.