COASTGUARD’S FREE BAR AWARENESS SEMINARS AND ROAD SHOW (NOVEMBER DATES)

Before heading out. You must:

• understand the state of the bar
• be able to interpret the conditions
• be able to assess the ever-changing shape and location of the channel.

Before attempting to cross a bar, you must do the following: 

• Prepare your boat and crew by securing all moveable objects and ensure the weight, including the passenger load is low.
• Check that the engine and steering are performing correctly and secure all the hatches.
• Ensure all passengers on board are wearing a well-fitted life jacket.
• Make sure you keep an eye on the conditions and study the nature of the seas to find the best route to take. Remember the best time to cross a bar is at high water. Avoid crossing when the tide is going out.
• Make sure you put a call in on your VHF radio to Coastguard or Maritime Radio immediately before AND after crossing the bar.

 Bar Awareness seminars will include information on how a bar works, the best times to cross a bar, boat handling tips, and descriptions of the local area and conditions to consider.

Join Coastguard on their Bar Awareness Roadshow as they conduct over 20 free seminars from the far north to the deep south of Aotearoa New Zealand.  Their mission is to equip boaties with the essential knowledge and skills they need before they cross a bar. They are tapping into the expertise of local legends, experienced Coastguard volunteers, and supportive community groups. Take advantage of this opportunity to gain essential knowledge and ensure your safety on the water.

 Upcoming seminars are:

•  Nov 5 – Titirangi War Memorial Hall 500 South Titirangi Road, Titirangi, Auckland 0604, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
•  Nov 7 – Bay of Islands Swordfish Club Inc 96 Marsden Road, Paihia, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
•  Nov 16 – Mangawhai Boating & Fishing Club 2 Alamar Crescent, Mangawhai Heads, Mangawhai, 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm
• Nov 17 – Ruawai Community Sports Club 25 Ruawai Wharf Road, Ruawai, 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
•  Nov 20 – Coastguard Queenstown Sugar Lane, Frankton, Queenstown, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
•  Nov 21- Riverton RSA 141 Palmerston Street, Riverton / Aparima, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
•  Nov 28 – This will be an online event. Access information via email will be available closer to the time. 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
•  Nov 30 – Maketu Coastguard 2 Town Point Road, Maketu, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm 

www.boatingeducation.org.nz/courses/38/bar-awareness-seminars/