Navigating Ports And Harbours
Access information related to pilotage and maritime pilots including the Port and Harbour Marine Safety Code guidance for the safe transfer of pilots, training and licensing.
Pilotage and pilots
Waters surrounding certain ports and their approaches are defined as pilotage areas.
Areas of compulsory pilotage have been put in place due to their navigational complexity, environmental significance and importance to seaborne commerce and are defined in legislation. Ships navigating in these pilotage areas require a licensed pilot. These highly skilled professionals are deeply knowledgeable about the risks to the safety of navigation in their local waters.
People who have an interest in pilotage services include:
- port companies and their employees
- harbourmasters
- ship owners, operators and masters
- providers of related services, for example, ships’ agents and providores.
Information access through this page is also relevant to masters who have a Pilotage Exemption Certificate (PEC) which, due to their qualifications, training and competence, permits them to navigate their ship within specific pilotage waters.
New Zealand Port and Harbour Marine Safety Code 2026
The New Zealand Port and Harbour Marine Safety Code provides national good practice guidance to port operators and councils to manage the safety of marine activities in their ports and harbours.
Ensuring safe transfers of pilots
Transferring maritime pilots is a high-risk operation with significant health and safety risks. Access guidance about ensuring the safe transfer of pilots
Training and licensing for pilots
Learn about the pathway to becoming a maritime pilot in New Zealand, including the requirements, training, and licensing process.
Maritime NZ's regulatory approach
Find information about Maritime NZ's regulatory approach including our operational policies and position statements.