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.

Close alert

Vessel speeds (5 knot rule)

  1. Services »
  2. Maritime services »
  3. Vessel speeds (5 knot rule)

The 5 knot rule for the Waikato region varies depending on whether you are using inland or coastal waters.

Inland

Go no faster than 5 knots (a fast walking pace) within:

  • 50m of a vessel or swimmer
  • 30m of the shore
  • 200m of any vessel that is flying a dive flag.

For full information, go to clause 2.4 of the Navigation Safety Bylaw.

Coastal

Go no faster than 5 knots (a fast walking pace) within:

  • 50m of another vessel or swimmer
  • 200m of the shore, any structure, or any vessel flying a dive flag.

For full information go to clause 2.5 of the Navigation Safety Bylaw.

Who the rule is for

The 5 knot rule is for all recreational vessels, including jetskis.

Where the rule applies

There are 5 knot zones within some boating areas, set by the Navigation Safety Bylaw. To read location specific information, go to Schedule 1 of the bylaw.

Where the rule varies

In the following areas, the 5 knot rule varies. You can find out the vessel speed rules for each area in the Navigation Safety Bylaw.

Areas where the 5 knot rule varies
Awakino River Mercury Bay
Coromandel Harbour Mokau River
Firth of Thames Motukakaho Island upstream to Meremere
Hamilton Ngaruawahia
Kawhia Harbour Port Waikato
Lake Arapuni Tairua Estuary
Lake Karapiro Waikato River – Rangiriri
Lake Maraetai Waikato River (Huntly) Lakes Waahi, Weaver and Kainui
Lake Ohakuri Whaingaroa (Raglan) Harbour
Lake Whakamaru Whangamata Harbour
Lakes Aratiatia, Atiamuri and Waipapa Whangapoua Harbour
Marokopa River  

 

Breaking the rules

Waikato Regional Council maritime officers on patrol can issue infringement notices that can lead to fines of up $200 for people breaking the rules on the water.

If you break the rules, you’re not just breaking the law – you could damage property and cause injury or loss of life.

Important

Don't be danger - Jet ski safety