Earlier this year, the NZ Parliament committee showed unanimous support for a new lifejacket rule. And as of 9 October 2026, the Maritime Transport (Lifejackets on Recreational Craft) Amendment Act 2025 comes into effect.
This change in legislation comes after years of advocacy by Water Safety NZ, and the broader water safety community in New Zealand, for a single, consistent national rule for wearing lifejackets. SPASA was involved in this latest round of advocacy, providing a letter of support early in the process.
Until 9 October, New Zealand’s national rules meant lifejackets needed only to be on board and ‘carried’. Every regional council then had individual by-laws stipulating different requirements for use.
The Maritime Transport (Lifejackets on Recreational Craft) Amendment Act 2025 simplifies the rules and makes lifejackets mandatory on underway recreational vessels 6m and under in size.
Encouraging all Kiwis to make the conscious choice to wear a lifejacket when they are on the water will save lives. Water Safety NZ data tells us 12 lives will be saved every year through clear and consistent lifejacket regulations.
Read the Final Report of the Transport and Infrastructure Committee: click here.
Members can read SPASA’s letter here.
Read and watch more information on Water Safety NZ’s website: click here.