Tough water regulations

Press, 5 December 1989, Page 29

Tough water regulations

Introduction of the Lakes District Waterway Authority by-laws marked ,the appearance of what are arguably New Zealand’s toughest regulations governing commercial boating and rafting. Queenstown becomes country’s to introduce specific ■ covering jet-boating, rafting and commer- ' ietilsailing. The stringent series of bydaws came into effect ' 'earlier this year. /•I’•fy.All;, drivers of commercial !; vessels must now hold a Certificate of Competency and have no . ibss than 20 hours experience ■J under, the supervision of a qualified driver on the particular area water where operating approval is sought. Drivers with a St John Ambulance Association first aid certificate and no less than 25 hours

experience under supervision can also apply for a licence. All drivers must have six months regular boating experience with at least a month’s regular sailing on waters under the Lakes Authority’s control. Applicants must also be at least 18 years old. Applicants sit a practical examination on subjects ranging from fire-fighting and life-saving to navigation skills. Commercial rafting operations are also included in the new regulations, which include a river grading system and criteria for qualified boatmen and trip leaders. Rafts are inspected regularly — regulations contain specific directions on their construction and the equipment they must carry. Boatmen must hold a valid First Aid certificate. They must

pass examination requirements and have a knowledge of raft construction, equipment and repairs. • ,i They must also have riverrafting experience under the supervision of a qualified boatman and possess a “good knowledge” of safety and emergency procedures and hazards associated with rivers in the certificate of registration. Trip leaders must be aged at least 20 and registered boatmen for a minimum of 12 months. During this time, they must have a minimum of 50 days of commercial river-rafting experience and a minimum of three trips as a trainee trip leader on designated rivers.

By-laws also included clauses on hire boat operations, water-ski-ing and parasailing.