Waikato Regional Council maritime services team leader Richard Barnett says boaties should be required to hold licences for recreational use. A senior Waikato harbourmaster believes requiring recreational skippers to hold a licence would make a difference to boating safety in New Zealand. The change would need to come from central government, Waikato Regional Council maritime services team leader Richard Barnett said. Reminding the public of water rules was vital "to prevent people from injuring themselves", he said. Those who are caught breaking water rules may be subject to a verbal or written warning, or an infringement fee of $200.

Source: Stuff February 05, 2019 04:41 UTC