New jet boat driver licence introduced for inland waters only

by NZBoating-World on 10 Jul 2012
The new driver licence for commercial jet boat drivers operating on rivers reflects existing good practice in the industry, Maritime New Zealand general manager Maritime Services Sharyn Forsyth said today.

The introduction of the licence was announced today (Tuesday) by Associate Transport Minister Simon Bridges.

The licence is a requirement of the new the Maritime Rule Part 82: Commercial Jet Boat Operations – River, which also requires ongoing competency checks for all drivers.

Ms Forsyth said MNZ had worked closely with the industry, and the New Zealand Commercial Jet Boat Association (NZCJBA), in developing the rule.

'Operators are keenly aware of the importance of safety and risk management – their standards are extremely high. This rule, in large part, reflects what is already standard practice in the industry,' she said.

NZCJBA chairman Jerry Hohneck said the new driver licence showed the maturity of the industry in New Zealand.
'It represents a benchmark in jet boating, not just in New Zealand but on a global level, and is the culmination of a lot of work by MNZ, the industry, and the NZCJBA.

'Commercial jet boat operators in New Zealand take risk management extremely seriously and safety is of paramount importance. We are always looking for ways of improving safety processes and the introduction of a driver licence is part of that.'

The rule comes into effect on 2 August. All current drivers may apply for a licence under special transitional provisions. Transitional licences will be issued subject to a safe driving record and drivers being 'fit and proper persons' as defined by the Maritime Transport Act 1994.

New drivers will be required to pass a practical driving test before gaining a licence. Previously, drivers were required to have a minimum of 50 hours driving experience before carrying passengers. They were also required to complete a familiarisation period on each new river.

The rule also makes driver log books mandatory, and includes design and construction changes, such as emergency exits and footrests, that provide greater passenger protection.

The changes reflect the fact that there have been several incidents involving death in commercial jet boat operations over the last few years.