Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) is currently following up its May 2006 consultation paper on commercial kayaking and assessment of respondents’ views with a round of site visits to key players in the kayaking sectors. Visits were carried out in the North Island in mid-March, and a South Island round is planned for April. The purpose of the visits is to broaden and deepen MNZ’s understanding of the various perspectives set out in the submissions. The will be meeting one-on-one to better understand participants’ views and operating environments.

John Marshall, the Manager of Environmental Research and Analysis at Maritime NZ said, “While MNZ is mindful that there are various options for future policy, including letting present trends continue, we are not committed to, nor favour, any one approach at this stage.  We are clear on one thing however: any additional intervention must contribute to safer commercial kayaking and take account of the costs of achieving that outcome, including compliance costs.” Maritime NZ is aiming to complete the policy development by June 2007, and will be working closely with ONZ and the Outdoor Leader Standards and Qualifications Alignment Steering Committee in the process. Contact John Marshall at john.marshall@maritimenz.govt.nz to discuss your perspectives.