It is important for you to understand the rules and regulations relating to safe boating and water-based activities in your specific region. Maritime Rule Part 91, the navigation safety rule, provides the foundation for all regional bylaws. New Zealand is a unique country, so there are regional variations in local or regional bylaws, however, these variations must remain consistent with Part 91.
Maritime Rules Part 91: Navigation Safety Rules
This section allows you to access the regional bylaws, safety plans, and local information relating to safe boating waterways around New Zealand.
You will see that Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) is responsible for navigation safety in some areas in New Zealand, or even parts of areas, eg in Northland, MNZ is responsible for the rivers and lakes, and the Northland Regional Council is responsible for the ocean.
The aim of local bylaws is to ensure the safety of waterway users and reduce the conflicts between different water-based activities – whether on lakes, rivers or harbours, and whether you are water skiing, swimming, boating, kayaking, jetskiing, or taking part in other water activities.
Instant fines may be given for offences against a regional bylaw, and for more serious offences you may be prosecuted. For really serious offences, your vessel can be detained or conditions imposed upon its continued use. In addition to adhering to the bylaws, you must meet all other requirements of the Maritime Transport Act.
More information is included in the:
Maritime Transport Act 1994 [New Zealand Legislation: Acts]
Local Government Act 1974 [New Zealand Legislation: Acts]
Resource Management Act 1991 [New Zealand Legislation: Acts]