As families head out on the water over the Christmas and New Year break, submissions have closed on the Life Jackets for Children and Young Persons Bill.
National MP for Upper Harbour Cameron Brewer says strong engagement from community and sector groups shows how important it is to keep children safe on the water.
"Drowning remains one of the leading causes of unintentional death for children under 15. Ensuring young people wear life jackets on the water can save lives," Cameron Brewer says.
The Bill would require children under 15 to wear life jackets on vessels six metres or less. Submitters also raised strong support for extending the requirement to all people on small vessels - a point Mr Brewer expects the select committee will carefully consider.
"Submitters have told us that inconsistency in life jacket rules creates confusion and risk. Clear, nationwide rules could save lives," Mr Brewer says.
The Bill is supported by Water Safety New Zealand, Maritime New Zealand, Coastguard New Zealand, and Drowning Prevention Auckland, all of which recommend the default wearing of life jackets on small recreational vessels.
"This is a practical, evidence-based measure that could immediately reduce fatalities. I'm pleased with the high level of engagement and the constructive feedback received," Mr Brewer says.
"While my Bill focuses on children and young people, many submitters were clear they want the requirement extended to all Kiwis on small vessels.
"I want all New Zealanders to stay safe on the water this summer, and I look forward to the select committee carefully considering the submissions.
