Boaties in Buller are being praised for their proactive behaviour

From today, the district joins the No Excuses campaign - which could see boaties face fines of up to 300 dollars for not wearing life jackets or speeding.

It's in force between Karamea and Punakaiki .

Westport Harbour Port Manager Jackie Mathers says it's been a relatively safe summer so far.. although a kayaker was blown eight kilometres offshore recently.

She says thankfully he had a cellphone - which is something they're promoting through No Excuses - so he could call for help.

Eighteen harbourmasters around the country are part of the campaign.