New Zealand has a great outdoors to explore. The Outdoor Safety Code NZ is there to keep safe for short walks, tramping, hiking, climbing, or boating. Whatever the activity, make sure you are safe from the start until the end by keeping in mind these simple rules:
The outdoor safety code NZ:
Before you go into the outdoors, get familiar with New Zealand’s outdoor safety code
- Choose the right trip for you.
Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it. - Understand the weather.
It can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed. - Pack warm clothes and extra food.
Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out. - Share your plans and take ways to get help.
Telling a trusted person your trip details and taking a distress beacon can save your
life. - Take care of yourself and each other.
Eat, drink and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together.
Take sufficient supplies. Make sure you have enough food, equipment, clothing, and emergency rations for the worst-case scenario. Take an appropriate means of communication.
The water safety code NZ:
Before you enter the water, get familiar with New Zealand’s water safety code
- Know how to float.
If you get into trouble, float on your back with your ears in the water – this will increase your
chances of survival. Relax and breathe normally. If you don’t know how to float, get some
lessons and practice before you enter the water. - Find the safest place.
Take a moment to assess the conditions and look for dangers like strong currents. Find the safest place to get in and out of the water. Places with lifeguards on duty are the safest. Listen to the lifeguards and pay attention to warning signs and flags. - If in doubt, stay out.
Check the weather before leaving home. If you’re unsure about your skill level, the weather, or the water conditions, it’s better to wait for another day. The weather and water conditions can change quickly. - Take care of yourself and others.
Always go with a buddy and tell someone your plans. When wearing a life jacket, make sure it fits properly. When children are in or near the water, a responsible adult should be within arm’s reach and watching them carefully. - Know how to get help. If you get into trouble, raise your arm and call out for help. If you see someone who needs help, call 111 and ask for the Police.
The boat safety code NZ:
Before you go boating on our seas, lakes and rivers, get familiar with New Zealand’s Boating Safety Code! No matter what kind of boat you use.
- Life jackets take them, wear them.
Boats, especially ones under 6 m in length, can sink very quickly. Wearing a life jacket increases your survival time in the water. - Skipper responsibility.
The skipper is responsible for the safety of everyone on board and the safe operation of the boat. Stay within the limits of your vessel and your experience. - Communications.
Take two separate waterproof ways of communicating, so we can help you if you get into difficulties. - Marine weather.
New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the local marine weather forecast before you go and expect both weather and sea state changes. - Avoid alcohol.
Safe boating and alcohol do not mix! Things can change quickly on the water. You need to stay alert and aware.