DCE (40 Series) Package 3 Consultation
Maritime NZ is undertaking a multi-year programme to reform the Maritime Rules governing domestic commercial vessel design, construction, and equipment (DCE) requirements. These rules are sometimes referred to as the “40-Series Rules”. Maritime NZ now seeks input on proposed changes to the DCE rules.
Overview
The changes to the DCE rules are being consulted on as packages, each including four proposed new Rule Parts and the associated maritime transport instruments (MTIs). The proposed new rules and MTIs will come into force at the same time, after all changes have been consulted on.
Maritime NZ has now opened consultation on Package 3, which covers a further four rule topics: survey and certification; lifting appliances, loose gear, and working gear; navigation; and accommodation, access, escape, and personal safety.
In total, 15 existing Rule Parts will be reformed through this programme. Package 1 was consulted on between August and October 2024 and covered four rule topics: life-saving appliances, fire protection, machinery and ancillary equipment, and anchors and cables. See here for Package 1 consultation page.
The second consultation package was consulted on between May and July 2025 and covered stability, drainage, freeboard, and subdivision; watertight and weathertight; electrical; and radio equipment. See here for Package 2 consultation page.
Maritime NZ is consulting on the draft rules on behalf of the Associate Minister of Transport who has the authority to make maritime rules. Maritime NZ is consulting on the draft MTIs on behalf of the Director of Maritime NZ, who has the power to make these MTIs where they have been enabled in the rules.
It is intended that the proposed new rules and MTIs will come into force in 2028. Note that these dates are subject to analysis of submissions received during this consultation, and Ministerial agreement to any changes subsequently made in response.
This consultation closes: 5pm, 25 September 2026
Consultation documents
The Invitation to Comment (ITC) briefly explains the reform of the DCE rules and provides a summary of the proposed changes to the rules and MTIs included in Package 3, and information on how to provide feedback.
A snapshot of the key changes is provided in both the ITC and as a stand-alone document, intended to help readers understand how they may be impacted. This document should be read in combination with the proposal summaries and draft rules and MTI for each topic.
The proposal summaries explain the proposed rule changes for each topic in more detail. They explain Maritime NZ’s understanding of the issues and ‘status quo’ under the current rules and set out the analysis and rationale behind the proposed changes. Any potential impacts from the proposed changes are also identified. This information is intended to meet the Government’s requirements for regulatory analysis.
The proposed rules and MTIs detail the exact requirements proposed. The rules set standards and obligations, and the purpose of the MTIs is to prescribe technical detail for how to comply with a rule. As a quick reference, the draft Rules have a blue header, and the draft MTIs have a green header.
A submission template to support the preparation of your submission includes specific questions for the different topics.
Survey and Certification
Lifting Appliances, Loose Gear, and Working Gear
Accommodation, Access, Escape and Personal Safety
Accessibility
An Easy Read version of this proposal is being prepared and is expected to be available by 30 July 2026.
Please contact Maritime NZ if there is an alternative format that would better support your access needs.
Navigation Systems and Equipment
How to make a submission
You can make a submission by:
- completing the submission form, or
- sending a written submission by email.
Submit your feedback here:
Email: [email protected]
Posting a letter to:
Policy and Rules Consultations
Regulatory Reform Projects
Maritime New Zealand
PO Box 25620
Wellington 6140
Consultation dates
The consultation opens 15 July 2026 and closes on 25 September 2026 at 5 pm.
What happens next
We will review all submissions and consider the feedback as we refine the proposals. We will publish a summary of submissions after the consultation closes.