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The fact that Kiwis love the water is borne out by latest Maritime NZ/Ipsos research that shows more than 2.1 million Kiwis undertook some form of recreational boating in the three months to June 2022.
Kayaks and powerboats are the most popular way people engage with the water, followed by the increasing popularity of paddleboarding.
Stand Up Paddling (SUP) safety officer Bill Dawes says the market has changed dramatically over the last five or six years, due to an influx of cheap boards available from high street stores and online.
“In the northern hemisphere, participation numbers have gone through the roof over the last few summers, and it is entirely probable we’re going to see the same here this summer,” he says.
“That has also led to an increase in incidents and rescues.”
At Wenderholm in 2019, a novice paddleboarder, who was also a fulltime swimming teacher and lifesaver, died after her leg rope became entangled around a buoy when she fell from her board. In 2015, a teenager died in Whangamata Harbour when she was dragged under a boat by the current and her leg rope became entangled in the boat’s keel.
The Coroner who delivered their findings on the Wenderholm drowning incident earlier this year made a number of recommendations, including:
• The need for appropriate equipment for the conditions, such as quick-release waist leashes in moving water
• Novice paddleboarders should start in sheltered waters and familiarise themselves with hazards before setting out
• Personal flotation devices should be worn, where appropriate.
However, Dawes says education is the key.
“Don’t assume that because you’re experienced in other water activities, you’ll automatically know what’s best for SUP.
“If you are starting out as a newcomer to the sport, we recommend getting a lesson if at all possible. Planning is also essential.
“It’s only when you understand what the risks are and what they look like, that you can counter them.
The first part of SUP safety is gaining this knowledge.”
Both the Safer Boating NZ and NZSUP websites have safety information, helpful guides and free courses.
