In this issue . . .

1. Introduction
...from the Director of MNZ.

2. New lifejacket safety initiatives
A law change making it compulsory for all people on board vessels under 6 metres to wear their lifejackets is hoped to be in place this time next year.

3. At a glance
Some facts and stats on recreational boating.

4. Top tips
Summer boating safety tips.

5. Ongoing support critical to FishSAFE’s success
"Use it or lose it" – that’s the message from industry mentors and supporters involved in the ground-breaking FishSAFE programme.

6. Why do we drown?
Understanding how your body will respond when you enter the water will improve your survival chances.

7. Vessel surveillance programme to continue
MNZ will continue monitoring and surveillance of commercial fishing vessels, following conviction of skippers for fishing outside their safe operational limits.

8. Review of maritime sewage pollution regulations
MNZ's review will look at whether regulations continue to provide protection and have kept up with changing maritime activity and public expectations.

9. Reducing marine debris
A new initiative from MNZ will involve working closely with the fishing industry to reduce the amount of garbage and marine debris in our waters.

10. Kiwi link to international bravery award
The "exceptional bravery" of two American sailors who risked their lives to rescue a New Zealander and two friends from a sinking yacht has been recognised with an award.

11. Boat ramp surveys and spot checks show strong safety awareness
Surveys and free boating safety checks in different parts of the country show a healthy safety culture among recreational boat skippers.

12. Boating tragedies underscore importance of good maintenance
The importance of good vessel maintenance has been highlighted following the tragic loss of three boaties in maintenance-related accidents.

13. Kiwi oil spill experts play key role in response
The foundering of a ship on a reef in Apia harbour provided an opportunity for MNZ oil spill experts to test their readiness to respond to international calls for assistance.

14. Refuse barge keeping Bay of Islands rubbish-free
Enjoy your summer holiday but use the facilities provided and take steps to minimise waste.

15. Tiritiri Matangi lighthouse open day
MNZ recently opened the doors of New Zealand’s oldest lighthouse still in operation.

16. Community Engagement Programme complete
MNZ representatives have travelled from Doubtless Bay to Bluff talking to the maritime community as part of MNZ’s Qualification and Operational Limits Review.

17. Keeping the lights on – Cuvier Island
New Zealand’s most distant offshore lighthouse was also one of the toughest on keepers and their families.

18. New MNZ website incident page
A new alternative home page for our website will be activated in the event of a major maritime incident.