During this year’s National Safe Boating Week (6 to 12 October), Century Batteries encouraged New Zealanders to put water safety first, starting with something many skippers overlook, the boat battery.
With more people heading out on the water, flat or faulty batteries remain one of the biggest causes of avoidable callouts. Last summer, Coastguard volunteers responded to 1,232 incidents, and many came down to battery trouble.
National Safe Boating Week may be over for 2025, yet the message still stands. Shaun O’Brien, General Manager Automotive at Century Batteries, says a good portion of those rescues could have been avoided with a few basic checks and a better grasp of how hard marine batteries work. Marine specific batteries, well maintained and properly installed, are a core part of both performance and safety.
Personal watercraft registrations have climbed 30 per cent in five years, which makes preparation even more important. Century Batteries ambassador Adam Clancey notes that a quick check before launch can save a day cut short on the water.
Century Batteries’ key battery safety reminders include:
- Make sure the battery is correctly installed and secured
- Check terminal connectors for any corrosion
- Fully charge the battery before use, especially after storage
- Avoid mixing batteries of different ages
- Turn off electronics you are not using
- Leave enough charge to get home
- Keep the battery topped up with a smart charger between trips
- Always use a marine specific battery
A few minutes of preparation can be the difference between a smooth day out and a call for help.
For more advice on marine batteries, safety checks, and choosing the right product for your boat, visit www.centurybatteries.co.nz
