Coastguard NZ has created a helpful video that explains what a bar is and offers crucial advice to help you make an informed decision about whether it's safe to cross.

Knowing how to correctly and confidently use a marine VHF radio is essential in emergency situations. To legally operate a VHF radio, you must hold a VHF Radio Operator Certificate—except when transmitting during an emergency or distress call.

VHF radios offer excellent coverage in most coastal areas, but they can be unreliable in some inland waterways.

Before heading out, it's a good idea to ask a local boatie or the Coastguard for advice. They'll have knowledge of any areas with limited or no VHF coverage due to the coastal terrain.

If you're boating in an area with limited VHF coverage, it's important to carry an EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) or a waterproof PLB (Personal Locator Beacon), along with a cellphone. In fact, it's always wise to have a distress beacon onboard, regardless of coverage conditions.