Responsible boating

All boats (sail or power) overtaking from astern are responsible for keeping clear until finally past the boat being overtaken.

Always assume that the boat in front may not be aware of your presence or intentions. 

Powerboats meeting head on must each alter their course to starboard to pass on the port side of each other. Keep right.

When powerboats meet at an angle, always give way to your right.

When the wind is coming from different sides: the boat with the wind on its port (left) side must give way.

When both vessels have the wind on the same side: the upwind (windward) boat must give way.

Power boats, unless being overtaken, must always give way to sail.

To keep costs to a minimum we have teamed up with Auckland Transport for all jetski and/or other personal water craft registrations. Head to the Auckland Transport Harbourmaster page to register.  

Registration is a one-off fee, valid for the lifetime of the machine and covers the Bay of Plenty, Auckland, Waikato and Northland regions. 

These machines are fast and exciting but need to be handled with care. The same boating rules apply to jetski and other personal water craft as for boats. 

There are designated areas for jetski to speed but there are also areas where they are not allowed. Make sure you know where before you head out. 

• A correctly fitting lifejacket must be worn by everyone onboard paddle craft of 6 metres or less whilst underway.

• Make sure you carry TWO forms of waterproof communication, like a cell phone in a waterproof bag, a VHF radio, whistle or flares.

• Wear suitable warm clothing. 

• Carry a bailer or pump. 

• Check the weather and tides before heading out. 

• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back. 

• Kayak with mates. 

• Be visible. Sticking reflective day glow or high visibility tape to your paddle blades is a good idea. 

• Know your limitations. 

• Talk to a local if you’re paddling in a new area - contact your local canoe/kayak retailer or local Coastguard unit. 

• Make sure your kayak is clearly marked with emergency contact details. 

• A correctly fitting lifejacket must be worn by everyone onboard Paddleboards whilst underway.

• Wear a leash when paddling on flat water. 

• Check the weather. It’s vital to know what the wind is forecast to do during your paddleboarding adventure. 

• Check the tides so you know what to expect during your time out on the water. 

• Avoid offshore winds. These are the ones that blow you away from the shore. Plan your trip and launching site with this in mind. 

• Paddle with a mate. It’s more fun and safer with a friend or in a group. 

• Carry TWO waterproof forms of communications - this could be a VHF radio or cell phone in a waterproof bag. 

• Learning: Take a lesson from a professional paddleboard instructor to learn good techniques early and gain maximum enjoyment from this sport. 

• Safety: Avoid areas where there are lots of other boats, strong currents and dangerous rocks. Don’t be afraid to adopt the ‘safe position’ (paddle from a kneeling position) to get back to the shore if you’re finding it too hard or unstable, or there is too much wind. 

• Stand up paddle boards in the surf are exempt from carrying communications or carrying a PFD, as long as you are wearing a leash. 

• In fast flowing rivers it is recommended that you do not wear your leash. 

Maritime rules require kayakers to carry a torch to prevent collision. However, holding a torch may prevent you from paddling effectively and therefore being seen!

Wearing a head torch allows your arms to be free to paddle. Or, mounting an all-round white light on your rear deck above head-height means you will be visible from all directions.