Before you go

Learn about what you need to do before you go out on the water.

1. Get familiar with the area 

Get local knowledge about hazards 

Every region in New Zealand has local variations in the environment and water conditions. Make sure you have the latest scale chart for any area where you go boating. Charts show:  

  • water depths 

  • rocks above and below the water 

  • underwater cables 

  • tidal flows 

  • buoys, beacons, and lighthouses 

  • the coastline.

2. Check the conditions 

Make sure you are up to date with the marine weather forecast and tides for your boating area. 

Marine forecasts are good at predicting major weather events, such as gales, but may be less accurate when predicting changes in local conditions. Seek local information and be prepared for the unexpected. 

If you are in doubt, change your plans and do not go out. 

3. Share your plans 

Let someone responsible know where you are going, when you expect to be back, and that they should call the Police if you are overdue. 

Leave details about: 

  • your boat, for example the boat’s name and radio callsign. 

  • the number of people on board or going with you 

  • where you are going and your estimated time of arrival

You can file a trip report by VHF radio to Maritime Radio or with Coastguard using VHF, or using the Coastguard app. 

Remember to cancel your trip report when you return safely. 

If you do not have a VHF radio, or the Coastguard app on your phone, you can use this simple trip report form. It helps you provide the key information your whānau and emergency services would need if you needed rescue. Leave a copy with your family, friends or your boat club.  

Simple trip form (opens in new tab)

4. Stow your gear onboard 

Have you got the right safety gear on board? 

To have a safe and trouble‑free trip, make sure your gear is in working order, easy to reach, and stowed safely on board. 

5. Plan your boat launch 

When you arrive at the boat ramp, park well out of the way of other boats while you prepare to launch. 

Launch and retrieval of your boat

Be aware of overhead wires. It is extremely dangerous to pass under one if your vessel’s total height exceeds the safe clearance for your boat. Electrical arcing and burns can occur if you contact power lines. 

As you prepare to enter the water: 

  • put in bungs and check they are secure 

  • check your safety gear is on board 

  • check you have enough fuel 

  • brief your crew and passengers so everyone knows how to find and operate the safety equipment stowed on board. 

Move away from the ramp slowly and keep a good lookout. Remember the 5-knot rule.