Manawatū River Navigation Safety Bylaw
Anybody who uses the Manawatū River and its tributaries for enjoyment, recreation and business should do so safely and with knowledge of the rules.
The Manawatū River and Tributaries Navigation Safety Bylaw (2022) reflects Maritime Rule Part 91, as well as local rules. The following is a summary of important points in the Bylaw for your reference.
Manawatū River and Tributaries Navigation Safety Bylaw (2022)
The Harbourmaster and appointed Enforcement Officers have powers under the Bylaw to keep the Manawatū River and its tributaries safe for navigation and recreation.
Water ski and personal water craft (jet ski) areas
1. On the Manawatū River between 2 kilometres upstream of the Whirokino Bridge down to the Whirokino boat launching ramp;
2. On the Manawatū River upstream of the Whirokino Bridge, from the Te Pehu Trig Station to another point 1.6 kilometres upstream where Cooks Drain enters;
3. On the Manawatū River below the Foxton-Shannon Bridge, between points 1 and 4 kilometres downstream of that bridge; and
4. On the Manawatū River from a point 200 metres upstream of the Manawatū Marine Boating Club launching ramp to the downstream end of the Foxton -Te Awahou Loop.
Remember: Life jackets are to be worn, and the minimum age is 15 for skippers of boats capable of more than 10 knots.
Jet ski registration
Under the 2022 Bylaw there is now a requirement for all jet ski owners to register their jet skis and display their registration sticker. The link below will take you to the Hawke's Bay Regional Council jet ski registration page where you can register. Once you have registered there your registration will cover all of New Zealand. If you sell your jet ski you must also transfer this jet ski registration through the same website.
Horizons River Management Assets Map
Horizons has created a map which overlays the area that the Bylaw applies according to subclause 1.2.2 of the Bylaw with the Horizons River management assets database.
This map gives river users the ability to check the section of river they wish to use and make them aware of any river management assets in the area.
This map does not detail the asset itself but will identify an asset by using a point, line or polygon.
If at any time a river user encounters an asset encroaching or obstructing a waterway, please notify the Harbourmaster by emailing harbourmaster@horizons.govt.nz with details of the obstruction and location.
On-water event application form
Send your completed application form and any supporting documents to Harbourmaster, C/- Horizons Regional Council, 17 Victoria Avenue, Palmerston North, or email to harbourmaster@horizons.govt.nz.
