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Accidents and reporting

How to report a recreational boating accident

You must report any accident, incident or serious harm injury to Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) as soon as practicable after it occurs. This is a legal requirement and applies to all recreational vessels in New Zealand waters.

This page explains the three steps involved in reporting an accident or incident, and is followed by links to more information:

1. Report the accident, incident or mishap by phone or VHF radio.
2. Select and complete the correct form.
3. Post or fax the form to the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ).

1. Report the accident, incident or mishap by freephone or VHF radio

• Freephone: 0508 222 433
• VHF Channel 16.

2. Select and complete the correct form

Note: if this accident involves a serious injury, illness or disease, you must also complete a second form (see below).

Recreational vessel – accident or incident report MAR AI 5 form [PDF: 140Kb, 4 pages]

Rafting – accident or incident MAR AI 6 form [PDF: 123Kb, 2 pages]

Jet boat – accident or incident MAR AI 7 form [PDF: 122Kb, 2 pages]

Sea kayak – accident or incident MAR AI 8 form [PDF: 124Kb, 2 pages]

River/lake kayak/canoe – accident or incident MAR AI 9 form [PDF: 126Kb, 2 pages]

Report of serious harm injury/other injury/illness or disease on board a recreational vessel MAR AI 3 form [PDF: 120Kb, 2 pages]

Forms for commercial vessels

3. Post or fax the form(s) to RCCNZ

Attn: Reporting form
Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand
PO Box 30050
Lower Hutt 5040
Fax: +64 4 577 8041

More information about accidents and reporting

Frequently asked questions about accident reporting
Case study examples and the lessons learnt
Investigation reports – recreational