Maritime NZ wants to remind ‘she’ll be righters’ and thrill seekers to stay off the water while a significant weather event tracks its way over parts of the country.

With Easter paired up with ANZAC Day, many people will be planning to head out onto the water.

MetService says bands of heavy rain and strong winds are forecast for many parts of northern and central New Zealand - starting today in the north, then sweeping south during Thursday and Friday.

Today, winds gusting more than 50 knots (90 km/h plus) have been recorded off the coasts of Auckland, Northland and the Coromandel.

Maritime NZ’s Principal Advisor Recreational Craft, Matt Wood says it is just not worth it to head out in these conditions.

"Some of the winds forecast for the top half of the North Island are the strongest since 2017.

"It is best to stay at home during this period.

"Going out on the water with the expected conditions puts you, and potentially rescuers at risk should you get into trouble," Matt Wood says.

Maritime NZ’s Rescue Coordination Centre alongside NZ Police are responsible for coordinating search and rescue action when this is required.

RCCNZ’s General Manager, Justin Allan says they are staffed 24/7 and are always ready alongside their search and rescue system partners to coordinate a rescue. However, he strongly encourages anyone planning on going out to understand the weather conditions as well as the risks to avoid the need for search and rescue action in difficult marine conditions.

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"Rescue missions need to be safe for those undertaking them. Do not underestimate the conditions, keep yourself safe, and consider the impact on those who may need to come to your assistance should you get into trouble," Justin Allan says.

Over the last couple of years several rescues occurred after recreational vessels were impacted by severe weather events.

"There were some close calls and some tragic incidents as well.

"Last year 17 people lost their lives in recreational boating incidents. Most of these were avoidable and in several cases people were out on the water when conditions were unsafe. Boaties need to ensure conditions are suitable before they hit the water, and if in doubt, don’t go out," Matt Wood says.

While the upper North Island will be impacted over the next couple of days, potentially there will be some good spots for boating in the lower North Island and upper half of the South Island, towards the end of the weekend. Ayone planning on getting on the water should check the maritime forecast. MetService has boating forecasts Marine Weather Forecasts and Conditions - MetService New Zealand.

For information on safer boating advice head to saferboating.org.nz.

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