Maritime NZ relies on industry feedback to ensure legislation works for everyone - including guides, operators and passengers. A discussion document on the rafting industry was released in 2002. This outlined a review and possible changes to parts of Maritime Rule Part 80, the legislation that governs commercial rafting in New Zealand.

Rule Part 80B is now at the informal draft stage. The formal draft will be released for industry comment during 2007. The actual timing of release rests with the Ministry of Transport.

Copies of the informal Draft Rule Part 80B have been circulated to a number of guides and operators.

If you would like a copy of the informal draft Rule Part 80B, or would like to submit feedback contact Maritime NZ:
Email: consultation@maritimenz.govt.nz
Freephone: 0508 22 55 22

All interested parties who indicate that they wish to be included on the mailing list will receive a copy of the formal draft Rule Part 80B when it is released. This will be your opportunity to review the intent of the rule and to submit any further feedback.

All commercial rafting operations in New Zealand are required to comply with the safety standards set out in Maritime Rule Part 80 administered by Maritime NZ. Maritime Rules Part 80 – Marine Craft used for Adventure Tourism establishes a Code of Practice for the Safety of Commercial Rafting. This Code of Practice covers:
• operational procedures
• equipment
• guide qualifications
• safe operational plans (SOP)
• audit and certification of operators.

At the core of the Code of Practice for the Safety of Commercial Rafting is the requirement that all commercial rafting operators develop a SOP which details how the operator will manage the safety of all people involved in their rafting operation.

Safe operating plans (SOP) include details on:
• operator details
• operating conditions
• passenger information
• passenger screening
• trip requirements
• back-up personnel
• equipment
• staff selection, training and supervision
• river conditions and on river management
• new operational situations and changes to existing operational situations
• emergency planning and procedures
• communications
• accident, incident and mishap recording, reporting and investigation
• implementation and review

The detail in each SOP may be different, allowing for local conditions and individual circumstances affecting each rafting operation. All operators are required to submit their SOP to Maritime NZ for audit and approval. Each SOP undergoes an initial audit by the Maritime NZ Rafting Safety Auditor. Note: Initial audits of SOPs in the Queenstown Lakes District area are undertaken by the Authorised Person appointed by the Director of Maritime NZ.

Once an SOP is approved the operator is issued with a Certificate of Compliance. Every operation must undergo an annual SOP audit to ensure their Certificate of Compliance remains valid. This ensures that each SOP is being properly maintained and that each rafting operation continues to comply with their SOP and the Code of Practice for the Safety of Commercial Rafting.

To assist in the development of SOPs Maritime NZ provides an education and liaison role with the rafting industry.

For further information, or details on developing a SOP contact Maritime NZ on 0508 22 55 22 or visit
www.maritimenz.govt.nz