The Southern lakes are expected to be swarming with people this summer, and Queenstown Lakes District harbourmaster staff will be patrolling on jet skis.

Harbourmaster Marty Black told the Wanaka App he is expecting a “very busy” summer and he wants people to use common sense on the water.

“Coming into the summer season one of the things we’ve been pestering people about is to be prepared, plan ahead, and if something goes wrong - know what to do,” Marty said.

“Know the boating rules. It’s not rocket science, it’s really just common sense.”

“At the end of the day we will take a hard line if people are being idiots,” he said, adding that some behaviour can incur “quite extensive fines”.

Be aware of the dangers on the Clutha River, harbourmaster Marty Black says.

For example, not observing someone on waterskis from a boat can incur a $500 fine for the driver, and a $300 fine for the skier.

People on stand up paddle boards (SUPs) must wear a lifejacket. It is also a good idea to carry a cellphone in a waterproof bag, Marty said.

“If you’re going down the Clutha River, be aware of the dangers,” he said.

Another concern for Marty is people jumping from the Albert Town bridge. While ‘No Jumping’ signs erected last summer had disappeared by autumn, Marty said the ban remains in place.

Use common sense in and on the water, Marty says.

“It’s dangerous - we strongly advise against it. End of story,” he said.

Boat sales have skyrocketed as Kiwis stay home this summer, Marty said, and Maritime NZ is urging boaties to get to grips with safety before heading out on the water, whether it be in the ocean, a lake or a river.

The NZ Marine Industry Association (NZMA) is seeing record boat sales and harbourmasters are reporting many new boaties on the water this season.

Maritime NZ engagement and collaboration manager Baz Kirk said there is already a noticeable increase in boating activity around New Zealand compared to last year, with more people exploring their own backyards due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Coastguard Wanaka Lakes (CWL) assisted a relatively low 15 people during incidents last summer. 

See also ‘Fewer lake incidents welcomed by Coastguard

“The relatively bad, windy weather has resulted in a marked decrease in recreational boating this year,” CLW president Jonathan Walmisley said. 

However, this summer could be a different story.

“The spike in new boaties has been marked, and we’re hearing that many have only owned their boats for a couple of weeks,” Baz said.

“Research shows there’s now 1.7 million Kiwis out on the water every year – including people on jetskis, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.”

The La Niña summer (with drier, hotter conditions and a higher risk of drought) on its way could also lead to more action on the water as people seek reprieve from the conditions.

See also: ORC issues warning for La Niña summer’

Baz said it’s vital everyone boating this summer – no matter how experienced - makes sure they know, understand and follow the rules.

"If you’re heading out, you need a plan – no matter how experienced you are. That means wearing lifejackets, carrying two forms of waterproof communication such as a distress beacon, VHF radio or a cellphone in a waterproof case, checking the weather and avoiding alcohol."

He also urged people to undertake training, suggesting the Coastguard’s Day Skipper course.

“Above all else, we’re asking everyone to follow the Boating Safety Code and remember the ‘Prep, check, know’ mantra: prep your boat, check your gear, know the rules.”

For more information about how to stay safe on the water this summer, check out the Safer Boating website.

Harbourmaster staff will be patrolling Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea on jet skis, and Glendhu Bay on a motorbike during the summer.

PHOTOS: Wanaka App