Navigation Safety Bylaw

Environment Southland has the statutory function to promote social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being in our region, which includes maritime and navigation safety. The region’s many navigable lakes, rivers, and extensive coastline support a variety of activities and attract a wide range of recreational and commercial users.

The Maritime Transport Act 1994 (MTA) empowers regional councils to make navigation safety bylaws for the purpose of ensuring maritime safety in their region.

The Navigation Safety Bylaw contains rules that apply in the Murihiku Southland region alongside the requirements of the Maritime Transport Act 1994 and nationally applicable rules in Maritime Rules part 91 and Maritime Rules part 22 so that all users can safely share and enjoy the region’s waterways.

Southland Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaw 2009 (amended 2015)

The Southland Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaw 2009 (as amended in 2015) is currently in force.

Download the Navigation Safety Bylaws 2009 (amended 2015)

Southland Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaw 2026

Council adopted the Southland Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaw 2026 on 22 October 2026, following a review of the existing Bylaw.

The new Bylaw will replace the 2009 Bylaw once the required infringement fee regulations have been made and the new Bylaw comes into force. This is expected to occur sometime in 2027. The process is being progressed by the Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport.

Until then, the existing 2009 Bylaw (as amended in 2015) remains in force.

Further information about the commencement of the new Bylaw will be provided once a date has been confirmed.

Download the Southland Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaw 2026.

Regulatory Standards Act 2025 - Consistency Accountability Statement and Summary of Underpinning Analysis

Go to www.haveyoursay.es.govt.nz to find out more about the review process.

Navigation Safety Bylaw

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