Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council ensures maritime safety in the region through the Navigation Safety Bylaw (the Bylaw).

The Bylaw plays an important role in helping keep our waterways safe – reducing the risk of accidents, injuries and collisions on the water. To ensure it continues to reflect best practice, responds to regional risks and aligns with current maritime legislation, Regional Council reviews the Bylaw every five years. A full review was completed in 2024, but two additional safety concerns emerged during post-consultation and are now being considered for further action. These are outlined below.

Kaupapa - Topics

There are two proposed amendments to the Navigation Safety Bylaw:

• Passage between Astrolabe Reef exclusion zone and Motiti Island
• Anchoring in the Tauranga Harbour shipping channels

Click on a topic below to find out more.

Want to learn more about the 2024 Navigation Safety Bylaw review?

You can find out more about the last review of the Bay of Plenty Navigation Safety Bylaw here.

Te Awanui (Tauranga Harbour), Motiti Island and the surrounding coastal environment are amongst the most precious taonga we have in the Western Bay of Plenty. They have immense cultural, social, environmental and economic value and form part of our regional identity.

Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council recognises the strong connection our community has with this area. That’s why we’re inviting you to share your thoughts on two proposed updates to the 2024 Navigation Safety Bylaw. Your feedback is important and will help guide decisions that support safety and care for our coastal environment. You can make a written submission by clicking on the 'Have your say' button below.