Whangarei Sea Cadets have taken part in a boating safety pilot scheme which Maritime NZ hopes to roll out nationwide.
The young mariners have surveyed boaties at Northland boat ramps this summer, with their last check to take place at Marsden Cove on Saturday.
Maritime NZ partnered up with the small, but keen, sea cadet unit, based at Training Ship Diomede on Riverside Drive, to survey boat users about their water activities, onboard safety gear, how often they go out on the water and the types of boats. Power boats, kayaks, dinghies and yachts were included in the survey at launching sites in tidal and non-tidal areas. While Maritime NZ regularly surveys boat owners, this is the first time it has used sea cadets to help.
The scheme was devised by assistant regional compliance manager Damian Poi. Mr Poi said that while the data collected would be analysed and help Maritime NZ and other water safety organisations get a picture of the region's recreational boating activities and standards, it had also been a valuable exercise for the high school-aged sea cadets.
"Whilst engaging throughout the day with recreational waterway users, there was continual positive response and support towards the sea cadets and the survey questioner," Mr Poi said.