Coastguard expects a busy summer on the water and urged all water users to prioritise safety this festive season.

Last summer was among the busiest on record for Coastguard volunteers, who responded to 1269 incidents, up nearly 3% on the post-Covid average.

Alarmingly, major life-threatening incidents rose by 26% compared to the previous summer, highlighting the growing number of serious situations crews are facing.

“Summer is a time to make fun, happy memories – boating, jetskiing, kayaking – but sadly, too many people aren’t making it home after a day on the water,” Coastguard chief executive Carl McOnie said.

“Accidents can happen even when you’ve got the right gear and done the right planning.

“By always wearing a lifejacket, carrying two forms of waterproof communication, and making a trip report – especially when crossing a bar – you give our volunteers the best chance to reach you quickly and bring you home safely.”

Among those who know just how quickly things can go wrong are two elderly brothers who survived a terrifying incident on Lake Rotoiti in March.

While attempting to tow a vessel that was taking on water, their own boat was pulled under, plunging them into the cold lake within seconds.

The experienced boaties had no time to reach their lifejackets and spent more than an hour in the water, kept afloat only by a seat cushion and two bags before help arrived.

Reflecting on the incident, Ian, whose last name has not been released, said it has changed his life forever and has a message for boaties this summer.

“It happened in seconds. You won’t have time to think; you won’t have time to grab anything,” he said.

“The only thing that will save you is wearing a lifejacket. We’ve learned a lesson, and I have to say it was a lesson we were extremely lucky to survive.”

Ian said their experience was a powerful reminder ahead of summer that lifejackets should be worn at all times and that even well-intentioned tows can quickly turn dangerous.

What seems like a simple assist can put both boats – and everyone on board – at risk, he said.

If people are ever unsure, call Coastguard on the local VHF channel or *500 on mobile.

Coastguard volunteers are trained, equipped and ready to respond, so a good deed doesn’t turn into a life-threatening situation.