23/02/2026
Recreation Aotearoa has recently submitted on the Life Jackets for Children and Young Persons Bill, a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to reduce preventable drownings in Aotearoa.
We fully support the Bill’s intent to protect young people, but the evidence is clear:
Most watercraft fatalities involve adults, particularly men over 40.
That’s why we’re joining Coastguard New Zealand and Safety New Zealand in calling for the legislation to go further.
What we’re advocating for:
– A single, consistent national rule
– Mandatory lifejacket wearing for all people on all recreational craft whenever they are underway
– A change that could save an estimated 12 lives every year
Just like seatbelt and helmet laws, strong national standards change behaviour.
History shows it works; pool fencing legislation reduced child drownings by 80%.
We’ve now presented both written and verbal submissions to the Transport and Infrastructure Select Committee and will continue to advocate for clear, effective water safety legislation.
Learn more or read our full submission:
https://www.nzrecreation.org.nz/advocacy/submission-life-jackets-children-and-young-persons-bill
Image credit: Miles Holden for Tourism New Zealand
