Canterbury's coast, lakes and rivers are highly valued for recreational activities, and the ports of Lyttelton and Timaru are vital to the regional economy. There are many recreational boats in the sea, and in our lakes and rivers, and the numbers of these craft are increasing.
Navigation safety issues include:
- ensuring free passage for large ships that cannot manoeuvre easily;
- separating areas for particular purposes such as water skiing, swimming and sailing;
- handling dangerous bulk materials;
- promoting the wearing of lifejackets by children in small craft.
There is a high degree of reliance on responsible behaviour by the recreational boating sector. In high-use areas, contracted and honorary enforcement officers assist with education and where necessary, bylaw enforcement.
The main ports and harbours in Canterbury have a good safety record but there are risks. Understanding and managing these risks is necessary for the well-being of port users and for protection of the environment.
Environment Canterbury is responsible for preparing navigation safety bylaws, enforcing maritime protection and safety rules, implementing the Port and Harbour Safety Code, and preparing a regional oil spill plan.
Navigation Safety bylaws
It is important that users of craft on Canterbury's lakes, rivers and coastal waters are aware of navigation safety bylaws. Download the navigation safety bylaws below and ensure that you meet them:
Navigation Safety Bylaws (pdf 1.31 MB)
Lake Ruataniwha bylaw change
The amendments are to the Bylaw section relating to Lake Ruataniwha, and take the form of Temporary Regulation under Clause 7 .1(1) to trial revised rules for the Lake aimed at improving boating safety.
Read the bylaw change (pdf 36 kB)
Read the updated Lake Ruataniwha navigation safety brochure (pdf 710 kB)
The map below shows the safety rules. Click on the map for a larger view.
