Boating Safely in New Zealand Waters: A Quick Refresher for Cruisers

Just arrived in New Zealand or gearing up for another cruising season? Before you cast off, brush up on the key Maritime NZ rules that keep everyone safe on our waters.

1. Keep a proper lookout

Stay alert for boats, swimmers, kayaks, dive flags, and floating hazards. Keep eyes ahead, especially when travelling at speed.
Collisions and groundings usually come down to one thing: someone wasn’t looking. Even when anchored, skippers must stay mindful of nearby traffic and changing conditions.

2. Maintain a safe speed

Operate at a pace that lets you stop or manoeuvre safely. The 5-knot rule applies when you are:

• Within 200 m of shore, a structure, or a dive flag

• Within 50 m of swimmers or another vessel

Check your wake - you are responsible for any damage or discomfort it causes.
Operators of powerboats capable of exceeding 10 knots must be at least 15 years old, unless directly supervised.

3. Know the give-way rules

Make early, obvious manoeuvres. If the other skipper doesn’t react, slow down or stop.

Power meets power:

• Give way to the vessel on your starboard (right) side - passing Port to Port

• When meeting head-on, both turn to starboard and pass port-to-port.
  

Power meets sail, paddle, or row:

• Powerboats give way unless overtaking.
  

Sail meets sail:

• The yacht with wind from port (left) gives way.

• The windward boat gives way to leeward.
  

4. Overtaking? You give way

If you approach within a 135-degree arc from another vessel’s stern, you are overtaking. Keep clear until well past and safe.

5. Keep clear of big ships

Large vessels have restricted manoeuvrability and limited visibility. In harbours and channels:

• Keep to the starboard side

• Never anchor in the channel

• Stay 500 m ahead of any large ship

• Stay 200 m from the sides and stern

FAQ

Do these rules apply to tenders and PWCs?
Yes. Speed and give-way rules apply to all craft, including tenders and PWCs.

How is the 5-knot rule enforced?
Harbourmasters and Police patrol popular areas. Infringements can result in fines.

What’s the best place to clear in when arriving from the islands?
Most cruisers choose Opua (Bay of Islands) as a Port of First Arrival. Marsden Point and Auckland have options subject to approved berths and procedures.

Local help!

New to boating here, or just purchased a yacht? The 36° Brokers crew can connect you with trusted local contacts for moorings, maintenance, and marina life across the Bay of Islands, Marsden Cove, Auckland, Tauranga and as far south as Picton.

 

Play it safe, play it smart. Set your course with confidence and enjoy every safe mile ahead.