If you are out enjoying the region's lakes, rivers and harbours, make sure you know the navigation and safety 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.
Lifejackets
People on board a vessel 6 metres or less must now wear a lifejacket unless the skipper has assessed...
Speed
When on the water, you must travel at a safe speed at all times.
Water skiing
It takes three to ski.
Kayaking and paddleboarding
The Bay of Plenty is a paddling paradise so here are some simple tips to keep you safe when you head...
Name your boat
Thinking of buying a boat? Make sure you’ve got a name picked out!
Lights at night
To help other boaties understand what you’re doing and which way you’re heading while you’re underwa...
Register your jetski
All jetski and other personal water craft (PWC) using Bay of Plenty waterways need be registered.
Give way rules
Know the giveway rules.
For safety reasons, the Hunters Creek ski area is closed to ski traffic for two hours either side of low tide. During this time the five knot rule applies.
For safety reasons, all vessels (including kayaks) are prohibited in the section of the Kaituna River named Pari Tūkino (commonly known as Gnarly Gorge) from 1 May 2019 for six months. Check out the background to this decision and the Harbourmaster's direction.
Okawa Bay is a five knot zone unless towing in the designated ski area, hence, all other boating, jetskiing or swimming activities must be contained within the perimeter area.