The Marlborough Habourmaster has issued a wreck declaration for former fishing vessel, Golden_Lea Photo: Supplied / Marlborough District Council
The problem of abandoned boats at marinas and bays around the country appears to be growing. Last month, the Marlborough Harbourmaster Jake Oliver, had to declare an old fishing vessel a wreck after it broke free in strong winds and ran aground and he says this isn't an isolated incident. He says dealing with old boats, or those that have been poorly maintained and are now at risk of sinking, is a problem that has been reported from Northland, the Bay of Plenty, and down to the Marlborough Sounds.
Even smaller vessels are causing problems, with Queenstown Lakes District Council issuing notice that from last month it would begin removing as many as 90 abandoned kayaks and boats from a popular reserve on the Wānaka lakefront. Susie speaks to Marlborough Harbourmaster, Jake Oliver.
