Regulatory Amendments Package 2024: Non-Commercial Use of Commercial Vessels and SeaCert

Maritime NZ is seeking your input on changes to Maritime Rules relating to the non-commercial use of commercial vessels for recreation (non-commercial use) and the Seafarer Certification (SeaCert) framework.

Overview

SeaCert

  • Changes to the Qualified Deck Crew (QDC) competency framework and Training Record Book (TRB),
  • Introducing a new entry-level skippers certificate,
  • Amendments to the Skipper Restricted Limits <500 GT endorsement,
  • Establishing a new pathway for foreign seafarers with appropriate overseas qualifications to work in New Zealand’s domestic sector,
  • Some minor and technical improvements to rules.

Non-commercial use of commercial vessels

  • Clarifying the requirements for commercial vessels when being used non-commercially for recreation, and
  • Introduce minor conditions on securing commercial equipment.

Consultation documents

The consultation documents provide further background and information on the proposed rules amendments.

The Invitation to Comment document explains the reasons for the proposed rules changes, an overview of the changes themselves, and information on how to provide feedback. There is also a set of consultation questions (also available in the form below) to help you with providing feedback.

Invitation to Comment - Regulatory Amendments Package 2024 [PDF: 792kB, 39 pages]

The Proposed Maritime Rules Various (RAP1) Amendments 2024 set out the proposed amendments for SeaCert, non-commercial use of commercial ships, and minor and technical rules improvements.

Appendix two – Proposed Regulatory Amendments Package (RAP1) Maritime Rules Amendments 2024 [PDF: 323kB, 39 pages]

The QDC Competency Framework and the QDC Training Record book have the proposed updates for these documents.

Appendix three – proposed changes to the Qualified Deck Crew competency framework and Training Record Book [PDF: 458kB, 31 pages] Appendix three - proposed Qualified Deck Crew competency framework and Training Record Book - marked changes [PDF: 485kB, 46 pages]

The Invitation to Comment Submission Form.

Submission Form Regulatory Amendments Package 2024 [PDF: 207kB, 17 pages]

How to make a submission

The consultation closes: 5:00PM 15 November 2024.

You can make a submission by completing the questions on the online form or on the ITC submission form and emailing or posting to Maritime NZ. If you would like to make a submission using a different method please contact us at the email address below to discuss.

Online Form: Submission Form 

Emailing: Consultations@maritimenz.govt.nz

Posting a letter to:

Regulatory Policy Design Team
Regulatory Frameworks
Maritime NZ
PO Box 25620
Wellington 6140