Dangerous Jetskiing Warning

The dangerous activities of jetskiers at Clive River will not be tolerated by Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, says Harbourmaster Charlie Rycroft who is concerned that a serious accident may occur.

He has had reports of jetskiers doing donuts in front of, or very close to, wakeboarders and skiers on Clive River.

Last Sunday (29 November) a jetski collided with a powerboat towing a wakeboarder. The collision was minor, but was caused by careless behaviour and could have been fatal at high speed.

Another very dangerous practice reported has been jetskiers tailgating skiers or wakeboarders at the designated Area C, the reach below the bridge near the launch ramp.

“Any further reports of such dangerous activity will result in jetski activity being severely restricted here with immediate effect,” Captain Rycroft said.

This could mean jetskis would only be able to be launched at Clive River and would have to operate at 5 knots maximum until they reach Area A (around the river mouth) where speed is unrestricted.

“Dangerous use of any boat or jetski is not permitted on any waterway. Contracted security officers and Honorary Boating Advisors shall be watching over this and other areas. Residents and other river users are also keeping a watch on jetskiers in this area.”

Instant fines of up to $200 may be issued to offenders. If a serious injury resulted, the offender will most likely suffer investigation, prosecution and fine or an appropriate jail sentence, in a similar way to a road accident.

Captain Rycroft said that any information on suspected offenders can be given to the Harbourmaster’s office phone 027 445 5592 or Hawke’s Bay Regional Council on 0800 108 838.

He says that any jetskiers who are unclear about the regulations or the designated areas on the Clive and other river and beach areas can ask for a free copy of the Navigation Safety Bylaws from Hawke’s Bay Regional Council or search on www.hbrc.govt.nz