Whakatāne District Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and the Police are joining together to remind the community that while wharves might be fun for jumping off their main purpose is for boating, and safety needs to come first.
Fine, settled weather has seen a spike in activity in and around the water this summer, and the Whakatāne wharf has been no exception, with high demand on the boat ramp from boaties and fishers alike. The wharf is also a popular spot for many swimmers, but the local authorities are reminding them that their chief purpose is for boats to enter and leave the water. With a number of fishing tournaments coming up and good weather set to continue, it’s important that the community is mindful of the safety issues in this area.
Whakatāne District Council Strategy and Economic Development General Manager Julie Gardyne says the Council has installed a floating barrier specifically for swimmers and wharf jumpers on the seaward side of the boat ramp. “We don’t want to stop anyone having fun, but we want to direct our community to make sure they’re having fun and being safe at the same time,” Mrs Gardyne says. “We also have the rock wall beach area which provides a safer swimming zone when the tides allow, and plans are underway for an upgrade to the waterside park for the near future.”
Bay of Plenty Regional Harbour Master Peter Buell says Navigation and Safety Bylaws are in place for the protection of those who are using our harbours, and their purpose needs to be observed.
“Whakatāne wharf is a busy, working port, and swimmers in particular need to be aware that boat traffic is entitled to consideration and safe practices by everyone in the area,” Mr Buell says.
“The Bylaw is clear and states in part that ‘no person shall jump, dive off, swim or undertake other related activities from any wharf or jetty when a vessel is manoeuvring within 50 metres of the wharf’.
“Mutual respect by all users is the best way to help prevent any accidents,” he says.
Whakatāne Police Senior Sergeant Yvonne Parker says safety must absolutely be paramount when in or on the water this summer. “Our goal is to assist our community to keep safe while having fun this summer. We want everyone to reach the river, swim safely and get back home again,” Ms Parker says. “Along with the Harbour Superintendant we will be at the wharf encouraging swimmers to stay safe, but common sense will always go a long way.”
Ms Parker says our community is generally very good at looking out for one another, and she encourages everyone to enjoy themselves while putting safety first.