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21 December 2017, 2:13 PM
Horizons Regional Council, along with partner organisations and groups, will be closely monitoring water vessel behaviour on the Manawatū River and its tributaries this holiday season and over the summer period.
Horizons harbourmaster for the Manawatū River, Ross Brannigan, says the council is responsible for ensuring river bylaws are upheld for the safety of all users. “With the great weather we’ve been having we’re not surprised people are out using jetskis and other motorised vessels,” he says. “However, we want to make sure that everyone does so in a way that ensures everyone gets out of the water unharmed. 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.” Mr Brannigan says a particular focus will be on the lower reaches of the Manawatū River from Whirokino to the Manawatū Estuary following a number of recent complaints. “The majority of complaints we’ve received have been in regard to jetski behaviour, although the bylaws apply to any vessel that is on the water. 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.” Mr Brannigan says operators of any vessel on the water must be aware of their responsibilities in regard to the Navigation Safety Rules and are liable for any breaches of those rules. “No one wants to be responsible for a tragedy on our water ways. Let’s all be aware of how our behaviour impacts others and share the space safely.” The Manawatū River bylaws include: