Anchors

Know the rules 

Skippers or drivers of any powerboat capable of speeds in excess of 10 knots must be 15 years of age or over. It is the skipper's responsibility to ensure the safety of the craft and crew on board. This includes knowing and understanding the rules of the road at sea. If you have an accident, ignorance of the rules set by the Navigation Safety Bylaw is not accepted as an excuse. 

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has a statutory role in ensuring maritime safety in its region by developing Navigation Bylaws under the Maritime Transport Act 1994. These Bylaws are in place to minimise the risk of fatalities, injuries, nuisance, accidents, collisions, and damage in the Bay of Plenty navigable waters.

Speed 

You must travel at a safe speed at all times. Know The Five Knot Rule! Your boat must not exceed five knots when: 

• Within 200 metres of the shore or a structure. 
• Within 200 metres of any vessel flying the International Code A Flag, for example, a dive flag.  
• Within 50 metres of another boat, raft or person in the water.  
• When the boat has anyone at or on the bow, with any portion of his/her body extending over the fore part, bow or side of the vessel.