Nelson Weekly Locally Owned and Operated
Summer 2020/21
ISSUE
HOLIDAY SUMMER 2020/21
2020 NEWS IN REVIEW PHOTOS OF THE YEAR CAMPGROUNDS CHOCKA YOUR PERFECT WEEKEND
Stressing safety on the water Charles Anderson Nelson’s harbourmaster is hoping a year without major incidents will carry on despite the likelihood of a slew of new boaties being on the water with new toys. “There is a concern that there are people buying brand new boats who have never been on the water before,” Andrew Hogg says. “They don’t know what to expect or what is required.” Andrew has been in the job for a year, after taking over from his longtime predecessor Dave Duncan. However, so far it has been an uneventful position. But he is fine with that. “There hasn’t been any serious incidents this year which is what everyone wishes for.”
Andrew, who came into the role after a distinguished career in the Navy, puts that down to new bylaws that came into effect at the end of last year. These include more stringency around speed limits and the compulsory wearing of life jackets on boats smaller than 6m. “There is also a lot more presence on the water with Amanda Kerr, the deputy harbourmaster, out there talking to people,” Andrew says. “People in general understand safety a bit more.” However, now is the time when the waters get busy. “It’s certainly ramped up with a lot more people out. We just have to make sure that they haven’t forgotten about that safety during the winter.” For those who are new to the
hobby, however, that can be difficult. “We definitely expect new people. A lot of boat shops have run out of everything because people can’t travel and are looking for other ways to relax and spend their money.” Andrew says it’s just the way it is that you are allowed to go and buy a boat despite never having been on the water before. The rules and the message are the same for all water goers this summer, he says. “We would like them to be considerate of others. To wear your life jacket. Have two forms of communication on board and know the weather. It’s still changeable. The wind always comes up in the afternoons. Expect it and prepare for it.”
Nelson harbourmaster Andrew Hogg is wanting new boaties to prepare before they get out on the water this summer. Photo: Charles Anderson.
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