Water Safety

Find out what you need to know as a boatie in Tasman.

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Key information

Boat speed limits

If not in a waterski access lane or waterski area, do not exceed 5 knots (about 9 kilometres per hour):

  • within 200 metres of shore or a structure;
  • within 200 metres of a divers flag;
  • within 50 metres of other vessels or swimmers.

Important boating tips:

  • Lifejackets save lives. A correctly fitting lifejacket for each person on board must be within immediate reach, or worn if conditions aren’t perfect or you are being towed.
  • At least two forms of waterproof communication should be carried to summon help if needed.
  • Unless lawfully using an access lane or reserved area, boats within 200m of shore, a structure or a divers blue and white flag, or within 50m of a person in the water or any other vessel, must not travel faster than 5 knots (about 9 kph). 
  • Movement through ski access lanes and reserved areas by vessels should be anticlockwise, ie keep to starboard.
  • It takes three to ski – carry an observer at all times. The collision prevention rules apply at sea in all areas including ski lanes.
  • If close to a collision course with another vessel, the give way vessel should stop or alter course to starboard (right) to avoid collision.

Read the Navigation Safety Bylaw (pdf 3.3 MB)

The Navigation Safety Bylaw has been updated and takes effect from 1 December 2024. The changes are summarised in this flyer (pdf 141 KB).

Note: Inexperienced boaties should take a Coastguard Boating Education course.

Related pages

You can help keep everyone safe by reporting accidents and near misses that happen at sea. This online form makes it easy.

Keeping boaties safe - this page lists any current navigation notices, advisories and safety warnings.

Complete this form when carrying out hot work on vessels.

Find information regarding boat ramps and launching lanes in the district.

This page lists events and public works in or near the sea, and in lakes and rivers. For public safety, the harbourmaster can separate groups of water users.

Learn more about moorings around our district.

Tasman District is a great place for getting out and about on the water.

Includes all you need to know about Port Tarakohe access and bookings.

Everyone wants a fun and safe water skiing experience - this page lists what you can do and your responsibilities.