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The Department of Conservation (DOC) is warning recreational boaties that anyone visiting islands in the Hauraki Gulf, including Kawau Island, will be reported to Police.
DOC operations manager Kat Lane says the department has received reports of boaties visiting islands, potentially endangering resident rangers.
“If people choose to live on boats, that’s where they need to stay. Hopping off your private vessel to go walk-about on an island compromises the health and safety of those who live there,” she says.
The Auckland Maritime Police Unit has been monitoring marine traffic in the Hauraki Gulf.
Sergeant John Saunders says during the 48 hour relocation period, people took to their yachts and launches to ride out the lockdown on the water.
He says the maritime unit has been speaking to vessel owners and taking an educational approach. Those on live-aboard vessels are only permitted to move their boat for the purpose of sheltering from weather.
Sgt Saunders also cautions recreational boaties that their insurance policies may not cover incidents or damage that take place during a lockdown.
However, he says there is otherwise very little maritime traffic with virtually no one flouting restrictions on recreational boating.
“We visited Kawau this week and most baches were closed up and things were very quiet.”
He is asking people not to visit Hauraki Gulf Islands.
“Residents on Great Barrier Island with scarce access to healthcare can’t afford to have Auckland boaties park up like its New Year’s Eve.
“If you’re contemplating taking your boat out to visit islands in the Hauraki Gulf, the message is simple – don’t.”
