Reworked Press Release Content:
Southland has become the first region in New Zealand to launch a mobile lifejacket library, aimed at keeping boaties safe on the water this summer. The initiative is a partnership between Environment Southland’s maritime team and ACC.
Regional Harbourmaster Lyndon Cleaver said this mobile option sets Southland apart from other areas, where fixed libraries have been the norm.
“We are looking at fixed position libraries, but in the meantime have opted to trial a mobile lifejacket library over the summer until locations for fixed lifejacket libraries are confirmed,” he said.
He added that Southland offers a wide range of boating options, from inland lakes and rivers to coastal waters.
“Southern boaties are spoilt for choice, they’ve got inland lakes and rivers, as well as coastal waters to explore. The most popular boating spot on any given day depends on the forecast – it can be miserable in Fiordland – and beautiful in the Catlins.”
The lifejackets, which are free to borrow, must be returned in good condition as arranged with the Harbourmaster team. The mobile library includes 20 lifejackets of various sizes, suitable for toddlers through to adults.
Cleaver emphasised the importance of safety, particularly in vessels six metres or smaller, where lifejackets are compulsory in both inland and coastal waters. This includes kayaks and dinghies.
“If you’ve got friends or family staying, you might be caught out with the wrong sized lifejackets. This initiative can help ensure everyone can get out and enjoy a day on the water,” he said.
The maritime team will be travelling to popular boat ramps across the region. Before Christmas, they will visit sites including Bluff, Riverton, and the lower Oreti River. Over the Christmas and New Year period, the mobile library is expected to operate around Te Anau and Manapouri – weather permitting.
Boaties can stay updated on the mobile library’s location by following Environment Southland’s Facebook page, joining local community pages, downloading the Antenno app, or calling 0800 76 88 45.