Maritime
Environment Southland is committed to safe boating for everyone and has put together a number of Navigation Safety Brochures that you can download below. If you would like a hard copy please contact us and request one.
Enforcement
Environment Southland aims to support boaties in Southland so they can enjoy safe boating. Rule making is, where ever possible, kept to the minimum. Although our staff are primarily there to provide boating advice, the Navigation Safety Bylaws are intended to ensure that safety can be enforced where necessary. Environment Southland Enforcement Officers, as well as ‘Honorary Enforcement Officers’, appointed in various areas throughout Southland, help in this task.
Infringement Fees
Boaties contravening the Navigation Safety Bylaws are subject to infringement fees of between $100 and $200.
What should I do in an accident?
Both Environment Southland and Maritime New Zealand require notification of accidents. We do not duplicate investigation wherever possible nor does this reporting requirement double the amount of effort required on your part. Simply complete the online form at http://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/Commercial/Accidents-and-investigations/Accidents-and-investigations.asp#forms and advise the details to Environment Southland.
The information gathered from these reports helps us to decide where further resources need to be employed. It also gives us the opportunity to help others avoid the accidents that have already been experienced.
If you are in distress you should issue a MAYDAY or PAN PAN message at the earliest opportunity.
If you hear one of these messages, acknowledge the call and, if necessary, relay the call to a shore station such as Maritime Radio or Bluff Fisherman Radio. You should offer assistance as long as you do not endanger yourself.
Environment Southland is the brand name of Southland Regional Council.