My Account
Last time Auckland Council’s Navigation Safety bylaw hit the headlines it was mainly because of the setting of rules around lifejackets.
The bylaw was adopted in 2014 and it is now being reviewed.
An early draft of the bylaw went to local boards last month where it was discussed in confidence.
The bylaw seeks to protect the public from safety risks and nuisance, and to manage the use of navigable waters.
New issues such as the use of hydrofoils and other “novel craft” are being considered due to possible safety risks.
Regarding lifejackets, the current bylaw requires them to be worn on all vessels of 6m or less, but they can be removed at the skipper’s discretion. Council staff are recommending that something similar goes into the reviewed bylaw, but more clearly worded. The possibility of higher infringement fines has also been raised.
Public consultation is part of the process. The draft bylaw will be made public this month, and residents can give feedback during the consultation period, towards the end of this year. The reviewed bylaw will then be adopted around the middle of next year.
