A pamphlet has been produced by the Waitaki Lakes Shorelines Authorities Committee, which not only outlines attractions and activities in the area, but also gives information about the Waitaki lakes and power stations, along with safety advice.
Waimate Mayor John Coles said visitors needed to be aware of hazards as well as highlights.
The pamphlet makes everyone aware of local camping and boating rules, lists useful contact numbers for information and emergencies, as well as facts about the area's wildlife and hydro dams, he said.
Environment Canterbury's (ECan) navigation safety manager Evan Walker said the summer season was very busy and he wanted to prevent accidents and problems occurring on the water.
For example, people should avoid dam inflow and outflow areas, as they could be dangerous. People should not fish in these areas, he said.
There are warnings about the dangers to the lakes and waterways of aquatic pests, such as lagarosiphon (oxygen weed) and didymo.
All water users had a role to play by checking boats, trailers and fishing gear, particularly when moving from one water body to another.
Check, clean, dry, he said.
The Waitaki Lakes Shoreline Authorities Committee is made up of representatives from Meridian Energy, Biosecurity New Zealand, Land Information (LINZ), the Department of Conservation, the Waitaki, Mackenzie, and Waimate district councils, the Waitaki Lakes and Rivers Committee and Environment Canterbury (ECan). The committee takes a co-ordinated approach to managing the Waitaki lakes area.
The pamphlet is available at local visitor centres, the Department of Conservation, council offices and online at ECan's website.
