New Zealand may have updated national legislation for lifejackets this summer if a new Bill is considered by Parliament before the election.
Water Safety New Zealand and Coastguard are delighted to have confirmation from Parliament’s Transport and Infrastructure Committee on its unanimous cross-party support for change.
In its original form, the Bill focused on mandatory lifejackets for people under the age of 15 only.
Water Safety’s Glen Scanlon said submissions supported the committee to understand the vital step of people of all ages wearing a lifejacket.
“Experts in the prevention and rescue world have called for change for decades. It is incredible news that we should get fit-for-purpose national legislation.
“The evidence is just so strong. In the past 25 years a total of 441 lives were lost in craft-related incidents – the fact that 336 of these people were not wearing a lifejacket is just overwhelming. We can save lives through this legislation change. And we must.”
Currently New Zealand’s national rule means lifejackets need to be on board and ‘carried’ only. Every regional council has individual by-laws stipulating different requirements for use.
The re-named Maritime Transport (Lifejackets on Recreational Craft) Amendment Act 2025 would simplify the rule and make lifejackets mandatory on underway recreational vessels 6m and under in size.
Coastguard Chief Executive Carl McOnie said the water safety community had advocated for many years to amend New Zealand’s lifejacket rules.
“We are very pleased our message has been heard. This represents the biggest drowning prevention opportunity in a generation. This is a practical, evidence-based step that will save lives.”
Waikato Regional Harbourmaster Chris Bredenbeck described today’s confirmation as “outstanding.”
“We have made lifejackets mandatory in the Waikato since 2013 and we’ve seen the results.
“Safety related laws and rules play an important part in setting clear expectations about what individuals can do to avoid unnecessary loss of life. The culture change that we see on the water in the Waikato is possible in every region.”
The Final Report of the Transport and Infrastructure Committee is here: Lifejackets Bill
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