Changes to engine rules
This year, new rules were introduced for engines over 130kW on boats. The rules are part of New Zealand’s commitment to MARPOL Annex VI, an international agreement that aims to reduce air pollution from ships. The ‘Part 199’ marine protection rules apply to New Zealand commercial vessels and recreational boats.
As ship and boat owners, we all have a part to play in protecting our marine environment and we can all help to reduce the impact of climate change.
The key rules that affect commercial or recreational vessels are the rules for engines over 130kW (174.3HP). The engine rules reduce the emissions of nitrogen oxides which are harmful to both people and the environment.
In general, engines installed before 19 May 2005 that have not been majorly modified, or engines used solely for emergency purposes or on boats that operate only in lakes or rivers, do not need to adhere to these rules. Please visit maritimenz.govt.nz/airpollution to find out whether your boat needs to comply.
| For vessels or boats in the NZ fleet on 31 December 2022: | Summary of engine requirements |
|---|---|
| Engines over 130kW installed between 19 May 2005 and 1 January 2023 | Commercial vessels: these engines need to meet emissions limits and have the required documentation at the vessel’s next major survey on or after 1 January 2029 (and by 30 June 2032). Recreational boats: these engines need to meet emissions limits and have the required documentation by 30 June 2032. |
| Engines over 130kW installed on or after 1 January 2023 | Commercial vessels and recreational boats need to meet emissions limits and have the required documentation for these engines from the date of install. (Commercial vessels will need to present the required documentation at the vessel’s next survey after 1 April 2023). |
| Engines over 130kW installed before 19 May 2005 | Commercial vessels and recreational boats are not required to meet emissions limits or have documentation for these engines. |
These rules apply regardless of the size of the vessel or boat the engine is installed on.
There are different requirements for engines:
- that undergo or have undergone a major conversion;
- on vessels or boats that voyage to overseas ports or waters outside of NZ jurisdiction;
- on vessels or boats that come into the New Zealand fleet on or after 1 January 2023.
Questions?
For details of the emissions limits, what documentation will be needed and more, see our:
Rules to prevent other types of air pollution from ships and reduce the carbon intensity of shipping have also been introduced. Information on these is available under marine protection rules.