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Recreational boating

If you are out enjoying the region's lakes, rivers and harbours, make sure you know the navigation and safety rules so that you and your crew come home safely.

You’ll find everything you need to know below to be prepared for your journey; from having the right gear to knowing the best radio frequency for your trip.

Being safe on the water Every skipper in New Zealand is responsible for the safety of those on board, no matter how big or small the boat is.

Being safe on the water

Every skipper in New Zealand is responsible for the safety of those on board, no matter how big or small the boat is.

Responsible boating Whether you’re going fishing, planning a quiet kayak or taking the jetski for a spin, you must follow the navigation and safety rules. &n...

Responsible boating

Whether you’re going fishing, planning a quiet kayak or taking the jetski for a spin, you must follow the navigation and safety rules. 

boat in harbour

Crossing a bar is a risky exercise. Make sure you’re prepared and know the conditions.

Learn how to make distress calls on the VHF radio and a list to all marine channels for the Bay.

Radio frequencies, weather and tides

Learn how to make distress calls on the VHF radio and a list to all marine channels for the Bay.

Buoys, marks and beacons Navigate safely – know the water ‘road signs’ and what they mean.

Buoys, marks and beacons

Navigate safely – know the water ‘road signs’ and what they mean.

Boating maps Explore maps for Tauranga, Rotorua Lakes Whakatāne and Ōhiwa Harbours.

Explore maps for Tauranga, Rotorua Lakes Whakatāne and Ōhiwa Harbours.

Know the Rules - Buoys and Beacons

Know the Rules - The 5 Knot Rule

Know the Rules - Lights At Night

Know the Rules - Moving Prohibited Zone

Know the Rules - Wharves and Jetties

Know the Rules - Ski Lanes

Know the Rules - Safety Equipment

Useful resources

Maritime NZ's Prep, Check, Know guide

Whakaari / White Island Volcanic Hazard Map: Maritime

Register your jetski - Auckland Transport Harbourmaster

To keep costs to a minimum we work with Auckland Transport for jetski and other personal watercraft registration.

More information

Port of Tauranga shipping schedules

Bylaws

Harbour conditions | Port of Tauranga