Maritime NZ is urging skippers of all recreational boats, no matter how big or small, to "check your lifejackets".
The skipper must have lifejackets of the right size for everyone on board and must ensure everyone is wearing a lifejacket at times of heightened risk.
"If they do not have lifejackets they can be fined and can be prosecuted but, in the most tragic situation, no court penalty will ever match the death of a family member or a friend on your boat," Safer Boating Forum chairwoman, Maritime NZ deputy director Sharyn Forsyth, said.
"The skipper is legally responsible for the safety of their boat and all on board, and Maritime NZ takes a strong stance on this.
"This Safer Boating Week we are focusing on lifejackets because they are your number one piece of safety equipment and must be in good condition to save lives."