Boaties urged to clean hulls

Boaties heading away this summer are being urged to make sure they are not taking unwanted passengers with them.

Auckland Council is encouraging boat owners to clean and maintain their hulls before the summer cruising season, helping prevent invasive marine pests from hitching a ride to new coastlines.

Senior regional marine biosecurity advisor Sam Happy says biofouling can build up not only on hulls, but in less visible areas such as propellers, shafts, intakes and around keels.

“Clean boats perform better, use less fuel and help prevent marine pests from being carried to new locations,” she says.

An up-to-date antifoul coating or recent hull clean is one of the most effective ways of reducing the risk.

“The issue becomes particularly important when boats travel between regions or visit areas with high ecological values. Marine pests transported on vessels can establish in previously unaffected areas, potentially threatening native marine ecosystems.”

Different marine biosecurity requirements also apply around New Zealand, meaning boaties should check the rules at their destination before setting off. Best practice is for vessels to have a clean hull with no more than a light slime layer.

Council is recommending owners organise maintenance now, before boatyards, haul-out facilities and marine trades enter their busiest period.

Happy says booking early also gives owners time to deal with unexpected problems discovered during a haul-out.

Maintenance should extend beyond antifouling and can include engine servicing, replacing anodes, propeller and shaft work, electrical repairs and checking safety equipment.

“You don’t want to arrive at your destination and discover your boat doesn’t meet the local biofouling requirements.”

Advice on hull maintenance, marine pest rules and haul-out facilities is available at marinepests.nz.