Paddle Safe event helps Cantabrians build confidence on the water
Smiles on the shoreline and steady progress on the water marked the success of our latest Paddle Safe Water event at Whakaraupō Lyttelton Harbour’s Magazine Bay Beach last week.
Hands-on learning on the water
Over two days, people of all ages took part in a range of free, hands-on activities including stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking lessons, waka ama and jet ski rides.
Participants were able to try new activities, build confidence and learn practical water safety skills in a supportive environment with lifejackets provided and expert guidance available.
Gordon McKay, Deputy Harbourmaster – Recreational Boating and Operations, said the event was designed to give people real, usable skills, not just information.
“Getting people out on the water is key,” said Gordon.
“Events like this give participants a chance to learn by doing - whether it’s how to wear a lifejacket properly, how to manage different watercraft, or how to share the water safely with others.”
Participants take to the water at Magazine Bay, building confidence with hands-on boating and safety activities
Making water safety more accessible through partnership
The event was delivered alongside several valued partners, including NZSUP, Kayak Aotearoa, the Safer Boating Forum, Maritime New Zealand, ACC, New Zealand Police, NZ Navy, Naval Point Club and Philippine Cultural Migrant Services.
Gordon says these partnerships are critical to reaching a wide range of communities and delivering consistent, trusted safety messages.
“Our partners bring expertise and strong connections with their communities,” he says.
“Working together helps us make water safety knowledge more accessible and relevant for everyone.”
Why these events matter
As the largest region in Aotearoa New Zealand, Waitaha Canterbury is home to a wide range of waterways - from exposed coastlines and busy harbours to braided rivers and inland lakes.
Events like Paddle Safe give people the chance to build real-world skills, understand boating rules in Canterbury, and feel more confident making safe decisions on the water. They’re part of our wider work to prevent incidents and support safer recreational use of our waterways.
“Simple actions like wearing a lifejacket, understanding conditions and knowing your limits can make all the difference,” says Gordon.
Learn how to stay safe on the water: Find water safety advice and boating rules for Canterbury waterways.