Scallop dredgers take note!

The Auckland Police Maritime Unit is reminding divers and boaties who are operating scallop dredges that they need to be constantly aware of each other.

Sergeant Craig Kennedy says the use of a dredge near where divers are collecting the shellfish is potentially dangerous.

"Boaties should give the divers some space and take account of the fact a boat can cover a lot more ground with a dredge than the divers can,"

Mr Kennedy said.

"If you intend to dredge but encounter divers in the area you wish to operate, wait until the divers have left the water. It is almost impossible to determine the exact location of divers on the seabed.

"Similarly divers, if you enter the water in the vicinity of vessels operating dredges, you are putting your health and possibly your life in danger.

"Make sure your boatman is always aware of other vessels in the area and that your dive flag is clearly visible. This may even mean holding the flag out to any approaching vessels."

There are provisions under the Maritime Transport Act to prosecute any person who operates a vessel in a manner that is likely to cause injury to any other person.

The Auckland Police Maritime Unit is available 24hours on 0800 10 28 35.

Sergeant Kennedy also had a warning for petrol thieves.

"Anyone who siphons or steals petrol from boats is potentially putting the lives of the people who operate the boats at risk.

"Most boats, especially trailer boats, do not have an accurate way of measuring fuel consumption. If you filled your boat last time you left the ramp ready for your next trip, do not take it for granted that your tank is still full.

"There has already been one incident recently of a tank being siphoned and the boatie running out of fuel in rough weather."