People using stand‑up paddleboards and other paddle craft are being reminded that carrying a personal flotation device, such as a lifejacket, is a legal requirement under local council bylaws.

Failure to carry a personal flotation device (PFD), defying the Navigational Safety Bylaw 2017, can result in a $200 infringement fee.

Bay of Plenty Harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters says the harbourmaster team has seen a sharp rise in breaches this summer, with a 150% increase in infringements issued to people on stand‑up paddleboards who were not carrying a PFD.

“Stand‑up paddleboards are affordable, portable, readily available and great fun, but with ownership and use comes the responsibility to learn and adhere to the on‑water rules,” Peters said.

Bay of Plenty Harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters. Photo / Bay of Plenty Regional Council

“It’s easy for someone to get in trouble very quickly if they fall in, lose their paddle or are pushed offshore by winds or currents. Trying to put on a PFD once you’re already in the water is difficult, so the simple solution is to put it on before you get on the water.”

PFDs must be carried on all paddle craft, including kayaks and stand‑up paddleboards, regardless of the distance from shore.

Bay of Plenty on-water breaches. Graph / Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Boaties who are unsure about the rules can visit the responsible boating section of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council website or download Boating in the Bay, a reader‑friendly guide to navigational safety bylaws.

Hard copies are also available from regional council offices or directly from harbourmaster patrol officers, who will be out on the water over the Easter break.