13 Aug 2020

Rules for water activities in levels 2 and 3

7:52 pm on 13 August 2020

Aucklanders are prohibited from using their boats for recreational use during alert level 3.

Sailboats on moorings in Okahu Bay in Auckland during sunset on calm day.

Photo: 123RF

Maritime New Zealand said some recreational water-based activities - involving sailing vessels and motorised boats or equipment - were not permitted until further notice.

Scuba diving is also not allowed.

Kayaking, canoeing, rowing, surfing, windsurfing and paddleboarding is permitted, however, Maritime NZ recommended that Aucklanders undertake these activities within 200 metres from shore.

Water-based activities that present a level of risk that could result in the need for search and rescue services are discouraged.

Anyone planning any water-based activities should check the conditions and possible changes in conditions before approaching the water.

Anybody taking to the water during alert level 3 should assess their competency level against the prevailing water and weather conditions (high winds, cold water temperature, large waves, or rips) to decide whether they can comfortably handle the conditions. If in doubt, people are advised to stay at home.

For the rest of New Zealand in alert level 2, all recreational water-based activities are permitted as long as it is done in a safe way where physical distancing and official public health guidance is applied.

All recreational water users under level 3 and 2 are asked to keep a record of their travel and wear masks in situations where it is difficult to maintain physical distancing.

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