On the third day of a hearing in Tauranga District Court today, the skipper of Predator, James Newlands, was found guilty under the Maritime Transport Act of causing unnecessary danger to his passengers. The sentencing has been adjourned until 3 March.
The skipper, his son and his son’s two friends were thrown into the sea when their 6-metre-long aluminium runabout capsized after striking large waves when heading out of Maraetai Bay near Te Kaha in the Bay of Plenty.
The skipper, his son and one friend, who were all wearing life jackets that were properly fastened, quickly returned to the surface. However, only the life jacket of the third boy, Steven Robinson, floated to the surface. His body was found two days later.
Director of Maritime NZ, Russell Kilvington, says this sad accident could so easily have been avoided had Mr Newlands launched his boat at a safer location nearby, or if he had checked to ensure Steven Robinson’s lifejacket was securely fastened.
“He was operating his boat in dangerous sea conditions with three young people on board, and he failed to ensure that the boys’ lifejackets were securely fastened. If a lifejacket isn’t securely fastened, it’s very likely it will come off when the person falls into the water,” he said.
For further information contact:
RCCNZ Media Line
Phone 04 499 7318
 ››Back to media releases
|
