"Clean, Green and Blue" - The Boaties' Environmental Guide
"Good water, good life" - Sir Peter Blake expressed it so simply - and for those of us who are drawn to the sea in boats this statement resonates strongly. It is not surprising that New Zealand has one of the highest ratios of boats per capita in the world. We are, after-all, a maritime nation - a group of islands surrounded by the greatest of oceans, the Pacific.
Because New Zealand is a small, isolated group of islands we sometimes view ourselves as insignificant (on a global scale) with regard to population, economy and culture. We are, however, significant from a marine perspective.
We manage the fourth largest marine estate in the world, our seas are home to a multitude of species and ecosystems - we are a global marine super-power.
Whether it is in a canoe, kayak, dinghy, yacht, powerboat, windsurfer or jet-ski, our love affair with the sea is a strong one. We are also aware that the quality of our water affects our quality of life - our enjoyment as a boating nation is influenced by the health and viability of our waterways and coastal waters. It is important, therefore, that we take responsibility for our actions when enjoying the aquatic environment. There are many influences on the quality of the waters we utilise for our boating activities beyond our direct control. However, there are simple things that we can commit to as "boaties" that will make a difference. We can take responsibility for our own actions and create a better future. This "Environmental Guide" provides information, resources links for the boating community to learn more about environmentally responsible boating. The Sir Peter Blake Trust encourages all boaties to adopt the "Boaties' Environmental Code of Conduct" and to do play their part in caring for the sea that is so important for enjoyable boating experiences.
Sir Peter Blake
"Having vision is not enough. Change comes through realising the vision and turning it into a reality. It is easy to espouse worthy goals, values and policies; the hard part is implementation."
Learn about Sir Peter Blake and his journeys around the globe