In an effort to end preventable drownings on the Kaipara Harbour and the region’s lakes, a Life Jacket Hub has been established at Coastguard Kaipara. The life jackets have been donated by Drowning Prevention Auckland with funding from Maritime New Zealand. The life jackets come in a range of children’s and adults’ sizes and are available to be borrowed for a maximum of two weeks for a gold donation. They’re also available for schools and other community groups to use for teaching water safety skills such as how to fit life jackets correctly, how they can work as a floatation device and how to practice being water safe in different environments - from rivers, to seas and lakes. Inquiries about using the Life Jacket Hub can contact Coastguard Kaipara on life@coastguardkaipara.org.nz.