Water skiers who're planning on hitting the waterways around the Bay of Plenty this summer are being asked remember: it takes three to ski.

Bay of Plenty Harbourmaster Peter Buell says any boat towing a skier, biscuit, wake board or any other similar device needs an observer who must be 10 years old or over.

Overall, Peter says boatie behaviour on Tauranga Harbour has been good this summer, but that being said, regional council patrols are finding that not having an observer when towing or skiing seems to be a Navigation Safety Bylaw rule most people are breaking.

'The rule exists to ensure the driver is focused on looking ahead and scanning for hazards. This is not a new rule so people need to be aware that if they break the rule they may receive an infringement notice.

'With so many vessels, swimmers and hazards in the water its vital skippers keep their eyes ahead. If you are towing someone – be it on water skis or a biscuit or anything else – they must have an extra person on board to be a spotter. This includes jet skis.”

The other rules commonly being broken relate to exceeding 5 knots within 200m of shore or within 50m of another vessel, and failing to carry enough properly fitting lifejackets for everyone on board.

THE WATER SKIING RULES:

It takes three to ski – you must have an observer when towing or skiing so they can communicate to the driver the actions of the person being towed. An observer must be 10 years old or over.

• Skiing from shore is only permitted within a designated ski access lane or ski reserved area.
• The skier must wear a lifejacket.
• Please consider the effect your wake may have on other craft.
• No water skiing after sunset or before sunrise.

For more information on the boating rules for Bay of Plenty visit the regional council's website at: www.boprc.govt.nz/harboumaster