Templates / Kayak, SUP & boat hire
Kayak, SUP & boat hire waiver template.
Free starting-point wording for New Zealand kayak, sup & boat hire operators. Copy it, or have it live as a digital form in about a minute.
Use this as a digital form, free →On-water hire acknowledgement
Conditions on the water change quickly. Before you head out we will brief you on today's conditions and where you can and cannot go. Please be honest about your swimming ability and experience.
The risks
- Capsizing and immersion in cold water, which can lead to cold shock, hypothermia or drowning.
- Changes in wind, tide, current, swell or river flow while you are out.
- Collisions with other craft, swimmers, rocks or submerged objects.
- Sunburn, dehydration, strains and blisters.
The rules
- A correctly fitted lifejacket must be worn at all times on the water.
- Stay within the area and return by the time explained in your briefing.
- No alcohol or drugs before or during your hire.
- Children must be accompanied as explained in your briefing.
- You are responsible for hired equipment and will be charged for loss or damage caused by misuse.
Acknowledgement
- I have read and understood the risks and rules above, and I have had the chance to ask questions.
- I am taking part voluntarily and I will follow the instructions of staff at all times.
- The information I have given is true, and I have disclosed any medical condition or injury that could affect my safety or the safety of others.
- For each person under 18 listed below: I am their parent or legal guardian (or I am authorised by their parent or guardian to sign for them), and I consent to them taking part on the same terms.
I understand that Your Business takes reasonable care to run this activity safely, that it cannot remove every risk, and that I am responsible for my own behaviour and for following the rules. Nothing in this form limits any rights I have under New Zealand law that cannot be excluded, including ACC cover.
Why it's worded this way
You'll notice it doesn't say "I release the operator from all liability". In New Zealand, ACC covers personal injury and people generally can't sue for compensation for injuries ACC covers, and an operator can't sign away its health and safety duties. So a sweeping American-style release adds little here and can look like you're hiding something. What's useful is a clear record that the person was told the risks, agreed to the rules, and gave you the medical and emergency details you need. More in the plain-English guide.
Not legal advice. This is a starting point. Swap "Your Business" for your name, change anything that doesn't match how you operate, and have the final version checked by your lawyer or insurer.