Lifejackets

Lifejackets are essential for all recreational activities on the water.

Check your lifejackets 

Lifejackets older than 10 years may be unsafe. Additionally, lifejackets with kapok filling or cotton straps could fail when used.  

Even newer lifejackets need to be checked regularly and looked after so they remain safe.  

Find out more about old lifejackets and how to check them: 

an old kapok filled lifejacket lying on the deck of a boat

The right lifejacket will suit your boating activities and crew

 

When picking which lifejacket to buy, consider:  

  • the type of recreational activities you do on water 

  • how far away from the shore you will travel  

  • weather and sea conditions you will encounter 

  • any local bylaws around lifejackets that apply to your region.

  • if buying for children, are the lifejackets the right size

Tools & Resources

Weather

Regional bylaws

Did you know? 

 

Most accidents occur suddenly with no warning 

There may be no time to grab a lifejacket, unless it is close at hand. It is also extremely difficult, if not impossible, to put on a lifejacket once you are in the water. 

 

Crotch straps are recommended in all situations 

Even when tightly secured, lifejackets tend to ride up on the wearer if there is any wave action.  

If your lifejacket is not fitted with a crotch strap but it is compatible, it is recommended you retrofit them.  Crotch straps are mandatory for all child-sized lifejackets  

 

Vessel size matters 

Most drownings in boating accidents involve vessels under 6 metres. Everyone on board vessels under 6 metres should wear a lifejacket, unless the skipper has assessed this is not necessary, due to the low risk at the time. We recommend that non-swimmers and children always wear lifejackets. 

Some bylaws go further than Maritime Rules, making the wearing of lifejackets compulsory for all on small vessels.

A legal requirement for boaties 

 

Skipper responsibility 

As a skipper, you must carry the correct type and size of lifejacket for each person on board. 

This is a legal requirement applying to all vessels, no matter the size.  

Under Maritime Rules, it is the skipper’s legal responsibility to ensure lifejackets are worn in situations of heightened risk, such as when crossing a bar, in rough water, during an emergency, and by non-swimmers. 

If they are not worn, lifejackets must be stored so they are immediately available in case of an emergency. 

 

Some regional council bylaws go further than Maritime Rules, making the wearing of lifejackets compulsory for all on small vessels.

 

Regional council bylaws 

Some bylaws go further than Maritime Rules, making the wearing of lifejackets compulsory for all on small vessels. 

Check your local regional council bylaws for the requirements that apply in the waters in your part of New Zealand.