For Northlanders longer days usually mean taking advantage of the beautiful coast and harbours in the region.
Before you wheel the boat out of winter storage, Coastguard is recommending a few simple safety tips before hitting the briny.
Whangarei Coastguard president Brian Whimp said outboard motors should be tested whileat home and not on the boat ramp. A service at the beginning of the season was highly recommended. He said the most common rescues Coastguard was called to at this time of the year were engine or fuel problems and flat batteries.
He reminded boaties the skipper was responsible for the safety of everyone on board and for the safe operation of the boat.
Checking the weather forecast before launching as well as during the day was also a key safety tip.
"Throughout the day you should also keep a close eye on the weather and check on forecasts. The weather and sea conditions will change during the day."
He expected there to be a steady increase in numbers going boating up until Labour Weekend when many more would hit the water.
