So, you've caught the paddleboarding bug - nice! Whether you're cruising the calm waters of Abel Tasman or braving the chop at Raglan, staying safe means more than just staying upright. Here's our no-nonsense guide to the 8 safety essentials every SUP paddler should pack (because no one wants to be that person getting rescued with their jandals floating away).
1. A PFD - Your Floating Lifesaver
Sure, you're basically part penguin, but even Michael Phelps wouldn't say no to extra buoyancy. While not always required by law (except in some spots), a personal flotation device (PFD) is like a seatbelt for the water. CPFD's come in a variety of styles:
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Slim waist-pack PFDs (perfect for flatwater cruising)
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Jacket-style life vests (with handy pockets for snacks - priorities!)
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Quick-release harnesses (for when you're tackling whitewater like a boss)
Leave it ashore for surf sessions - trying to duck dive in a bulky PFD is about as graceful as a hippo doing ballet.
2. A Leash - Because Olympic Swimming Isn't Your Sport
Picture this: you nail that perfect pivot turn, only to watch your board sprint for the horizon like it's late for a date. A good leash keeps you and your board BFFs, attached at the ankle. Match yours to your adventure:
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Coiled leash (flatwater - stops it dragging like a soggy noodle)
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Straight leash (surf - no brutal rebound snaps)
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Quick-release (whitewater - for when the river gets cheeky)
Pro tip: Attach it on before you step on your board. We've all learned this the hard way.
3. A Whistle - The Original Distress Call
Small but mighty, a whistle can summon help faster than yelling "mate!" at a busy beach. Clip it to your PFD so it's always handy when you need to startle seagulls... I mean, call for help.
4. Sun Protection - Lobster Red Isn't a Good Look
NZ sun doesn't mess around - and water acts as a giant magnifying glass. Arm yourself with:
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Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+, because peeling skin is so last season)
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A trusty hat (preferably one that won't end up as fish food and adds coverage to the back of the neck)
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Plenty of water (hydration is key when you're working harder than a one-armed possum)
5. Lights - For Those "Oops, Lost Track of Time" Moments
If you're out at dawn/dusk or in our famous NZ fog, you'll need:
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White front light (so boats don't mistake you for a very lost penguin)
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Red rear light (like a cycle light, but for your SUP - attach this to your PFD)
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Waterproof headlamp (hands-free lighting for when you need to paddle, snack and take photos simultaneously)
6. Helmet & Quick-Release (For Whitewater Warriors)
Taking on our wild rivers? You'll want:
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Proper whitewater helmet (CE-certified, because your noggin's pretty important)
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Quick-release harness (for when the river decides to test your commitment)
7. Navigation - Because "Winging It" Isn't a Strategy
Phones die faster than a mayfly in summer, so pack:
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Waterproof phone case (tethered to you, not the board or a fish)
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GPS app (Gaia is a solid choice)
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Old-school map & compass (for when technology throws a tantrum)
- A battery pack in a drybag (for when your phone inevitably dies)
8. Emergency Extras - Better to Have and Not Need than Need and Not Have
For remote adventures, consider:
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PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) - the ultimate "come get me" device - also known as a Beacon, Spot or InReach device
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Flare kit (coastal paddlers, this one's for you)
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Basic first aid supplies (because bandaids fix everything)
Final Tip: Common Sense is Your Best Gear
Even the flashiest equipment won't help if you ignore weather warnings, your limits, or that little voice saying "maybe not today". Check forecasts, paddle with mates when you can, and always let someone know your plans.
