An incident on Lake Wakatipu last week prompted Coastguard New Zealand to issue a reminder to boat users of "a few simple rules" before going out on to the water.
The trio, who were not wearing lifejackets and were not dressed for the conditions, had been forced to spend a night in the open on Pig Island after conditions changed and heavy winds prevented them from returning to shore.
Coastguard chief executive Bruce Reid said the incident was a "clear reminder" to anyone thinking about going out on the water to remember "a few golden rules".
"Golden rule number one is never venture out without lifejackets for everyone on board.
"It's also vital to carry at least two forms of communication and check the weather conditions to ensure you're prepared for the worst-case scenario. New Zealand weather can be unpredictable and, as these holidaymakers discovered, can change in the blink of an eye."
Mr Reid said most importantly, boat users had to ensure their boat was seaworthy.
"Coastguard [New Zealand] has a handy WOF-style checklist that we urge all boat owners to do before setting out. And if you don't know the area, ask a local.
"What we'd also like to add is that Coastguard is here to help those in trouble on the water.
"While we hope boaties will be sensible in their preparations for going out on the water, we know errors in judgement can happen.
"Our community promise is saving lives at sea, so there is no room to be judgemental - when people are in trouble we will do everything possible to ensure the best possible outcome.
"It's why we exist, why our people give more than 300,000 hours every year and why New Zealanders support our charity. The value of a life saved far outweighs the costs of a search and rescue."
Coastguard tips for safe boating
• Check your boat using the Coastguard Boating Safety Guide at www.coastguard.co.nz
• Tell people of your intentions - lodge a trip report with your local Coastguard VHF Radio station.
• Take the correct size and type of lifejacket for each person and for the type of activity you are undertaking.
• Take at least two waterproof methods of communication - the primary method is VHF marine radio.
• Secondary is a cellphone - always put your cellphone in a sealable plastic bag.
• If you can't call us, we can't rescue you.
• Other options include flares and personal locator beacons.
• Get a marine weather forecast before you go boating and keep yourself up to date during the day with Coastguard NowCasting on VHF; the weather can change quickly at sea.
• Ensure your vessel carries the correct and appropriate safety equipment (e.g. flares, EPIRB, VHF radio, first aid kit).
