Sailing in harmony along the river

After a few problems early in the summer, boaties and jet skiers on the Manawatu¯ River seem to be getting along well.

Horizons Regional Council is working with various groups to keep an eye on people using boats, jet skis and other vessels on the Manawatu¯ River and its tributaries during the busy summer months.

Manawatu¯ River harbourmaster Ross Brannigan said it was no surprise to see people taking full advantage of the river.

But, he was keen to make sure everyone using the water stays safe. ‘‘This means remembering to stay within speed limits, not getting too close to other users, and being old enough to operate the vessel in the first place.’’

There were complaints early in the summer months about behaviour on the stretch of river from Whirokino to the Manawatu¯ Estuary, near Foxton – mainly about jet skis.

‘‘The lower reaches of the river have become a popular destination for jet skiers, along with various other recreational activities, so we will be keeping an eye on all users to make sure they are behaving responsibly,’’ Brannigan said.

‘‘No-one wants to be responsible for a tragedy on our waterways.’’

Manawatu¯ Marine Boating Club commodore Keith Swinbank said river behaviour had been good recently.

Most jet skiers went up the river, while people on boats were usually heading out to go fishing, he said.

‘‘I have noticed a few boats going up the river this last week with biscuits. You don’t see water skis as much these days.’’

Swinbank was especially pleased with behaviour on Saturday, when 83 boats went out from the ramp to go fishing.

‘‘We had no incidents, which is great. From my observations, walking around the club, I’m quite happy with the way everyone is respecting everyone else’s position.’’

The Manawatu¯ River has various bylaws, including not going above 5 knots when within 50 metres of any vessel or person, or within 200m of the Manawatu¯ Marine Boating Club launch ramp at Foxton Beach.

People can go without lifejackets if the person in charge of the vessel has given permission, but lifejackets must still be on board.

Furthermore, people younger than 15 cannot drive vessels able to go faster than 10 knots.

‘‘No-one wants to be responsible for a tragedy on our waterways.’’ Manawatu¯ River harbourmaster Ross Brannigan