NZ boatie drownings: More than half without life jackets

(File)
(File)

On average 23 boaties die in New Zealand waters every year. 

But Maritime New Zealand says at least 15 of those killed would still be here if they had been wearing life jackets.

To make matters worse, almost 96 percent of recreational boaties report carrying life jackets on board, but more than a third still don't wear them.

Here's what can you do to make sure you and your loved ones are safe before heading out this summer:

Newshub.