Signs warning about the danger of strong currents in the Whangamata harbour will be erected following a coroner's inquest into the death of Morrinsville paddleboarder Amie Russell.

Coroner Gordon Matenga is also recommending paddleboarders wear appropriate personal flotation devices and use a quick-release leg rope when in bodies of water with strong currents.

Morrinsville teenager Amie Russell died while paddleboarding in the Whangamata Harbour in January 2015. Photo: File

Waikato Regional Council maritime services team leader Richard Barnett confirms the signs, which will also warn people to be careful near moored boats, will be erected at several locations in Whangamata within the next month.

Amie had been holding on to a paddleboard when she lost her grip and was dragged by the current under a boat moored in the Whangamata Harbour in January 2015.

The 15-year-old then became stuck under the vessel and was unable to free herself, which was likely due to her leg rope becoming wrapped around the boat's keel.

By the time others managed to free her and get her to the surface, she was unresponsive.

Richard, who provided advice to the inquest, believes the coroner's recommendation of erecting signs is a sensible one.

'The signage will warn paddlers of the strong tidal currents locally, and the related hazards posed by moored vessels and other structures,” he says.

Richard also strongly agrees with the coroner's recommendation that a quick release leg rope be used in 'white water, rivers and bodies of water which have a strong current”.

An alternative to quick release leashes for paddleboarders could be to wear an appropriate conventional lifejacket and remain unleashed to the board until clear of potential hazards, he adds.

'At that point the leash could be re-attached. While there would be a small increased risk of becoming separated from the board while not attached there would be a much reduced risk of the paddler becoming entangled with a boat or structure,” says Richard.