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Boat on a trailer.

Taking care of your trailer

We give you tips on how to keep your boat trailer in top condition.

Person holding fish

The five principles of FishCare

FishCare promotes best practice techniques to help people contribute to fishery and environmental sustainability.

Navigation diagram

The give way rules on the water

If you’re looking to take a boat out for the first time, you need to know the rules of the road at sea.

beautiful NZ weather

Things to check before you hit the water

Make sure you kick off your boat trip smoothly, by checking these key things every time you head out.

fuel gauge on a boat

Top 10 tips for boat maintenance

Check out our top 10 recommendations to keep your boat in tip top condition at all times.

VHF Callsigns

All VHF radio transmissions in New Zealand are legally required to be individually identifiable, and the best way to do this is with a callsign.

Man using radio on boat

VHF radio and Nowcasting channels

Broken down, need a tow, or simply looking to make a trip report? Use these VHF channels to contact us.

What to do in an emergency

Most emergencies occur unexpectedly and very quickly. Being ready for any issue can help you and your mates survive a dramatic incident.

Duty officers in the Coastguard operations room taking trip reports

Trip reporting basics

A trip report (TR) is a message that you pass to Coastguard Radio to advise us of your intended boating activity.

Child with lifejacket

How to choose a well fitting lifejacket

A lifejacket is only good for saving your – or your child’s – life if it stays on snugly when you need it.

Drawing of white and blue dive flag

Looking out for divers

The role of boatperson is a key one for a safe and enjoyable dive. Establish and agree on a plan before leaving the boat.

clean NZ environment

Protecting our marine environment

Here are three easy ways to keep yourself out of trouble and our marine environment clean.

Diver with scuba gear

Safety under the water

Taking a minute to prep and get ready for diving will make sure you get home safe with a good haul.

lifejacket

All about lifejackets

While it’s true that any lifejacket is better than none when you head out on the water, it’s a good idea to select the best lifejacket for your activity.

boat crossing a bar

Crossing a bar

Crossing a bar can be very dangerous. Check out our tips for getting across safely.

beacon

What you need on your boat

Here's the Coastguard approved list of what you should have on your vessel when you head out.

Boatie's Best Mate.

Get a Coastguard membership today for peace of mind when you’re out boating.