The doors to our Whitianga and Paeroa offices will be closed for the summer break from 4pm on Friday, 20 December, while our Taupō and Hamilton offices will close for the summer break at 1pm on Tuesday, 24 December. All offices will reopen on Monday, 6 January 2025. To report air or water pollution, unsafe water activities in or on a river, lake or harbour, or make a general enquiry or information request during this time, call us 24/7 on 0800 800 401.

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Navigation Safety Bylaw

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The Navigation Safety Bylaw sets out safe practices for water skiing, boating, kayaking, swimming and other water activities on and in the Waikato region's lakes, rivers and harbours.

The bylaw was updated in 2020 following a review, including public consultation and hearing.

Read the Navigation Safety Bylaw

Image - Navigation Safety Bylaw The Navigation Safety Bylaw covers all navigable waterways in the Waikato region (with the exception of Lake Taupō, see below) and is aimed at ensuring the safety of users on these waterways.

The bylaw does not apply to Lake Taupō.
Regulation for Lake Taupō is provided by the Department of Internal Affairs. View the Lake Taupō harbourmaster's website for information and rules on safe boating on the lake.

Other rules

The bylaw should be read in conjunction with: 

  • the Local Government Act 1974
  • the Maritime Transport Act 1994
  • the Resource Management Act 1991
  • Amusement Devices Regulations
  • Machinery Act 1978  
  • Port Operations Code of Practice
  • and / or any other Act or statutory instrument relevant to navigation safety

Apply for an exemption

Do you need an exemption to the bylaw? Complete the bylaw exemption application form.

For further help, call our freephone 0800 800 401 and ask to speak to someone in the Maritime Services team.