A jet boater has earned bragging rights but incurred a fine after being convicted for last year’s joyride on a restricted section of the Kawarau River.

The conviction of Alexandra’s Tim O'Sullivan serves as a reminder to boaties to stick to the rules, according to Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC).

Tim was fined $1,500 in Queenstown District Court yesterday (Monday December 5) after pleading guilty to charges brought by QLDC for breaching the Navigation Safety Bylaw 2018 in December 2021.

Watch the video (caution some foul language)

The video was filmed on the Nevis rapid, a restricted section of the Kawarau River below Arrow River. It has been viewed almost 50,000 times.

QLDC regulatory manager Anthony Hall said the case was a reminder of the need for safe use of the district’s waterways with the busy season about to start.

“The bylaw is very clear about restricted areas where boat operators cannot operate a powered vessel without first obtaining an exemption from QLDC. The rule is there to protect all users of our rivers and lakes and we enforce it rigorously,” he said.

“While we’re satisfied to achieve a successful conviction in this case, we hope it will serve as both a reminder to make smart choices in and around water and a deterrent to others from making similar, very dangerous choices.”

Anthony said QLDC’s guidance on safe boating and bylaws is published widely and there is clear signage in place on these sections. Information can be found on QLDC website under ‘lakes and boating’ and printed copies are in QLDC offices in Queenstown and Wānaka.

Using a powered vessel such as a jet boat in any restricted areas, including the Kawarau River, is a significant safety issue. 

This section of the Kawarau River is considered hazardous for multiple users (eg both powered and non-powered vessels) and is currently only available to passive users (eg non-powered vessels) unless a prior exemption is obtained by QLDC.

Anthony said obtaining an exemption through QLDC to operate a powered vessel on this section of the Kawarau River ensures that the correct safety precautions are in place to consider other river users.

QLDC is the regulatory authority for waterways across the district and promotes their safe use through the Navigation Safety Bylaw 2018 and Maritime Act 1994.

Find out how to apply for an exemption under the Navigation Safety Bylaw here.