Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council would like to thank the members of our community who took the time to make a submission or provide feedback on the two proposed amendments to the 2024 Navigation Safety Bylaw.

The Regional Council received 31 unique submissions (Note: Some individuals submitted on both topics), with two individuals also requesting the opportunity to make a verbal submission. 92 'quick polls' were also completed on the two topics and the quality of information provided.

What did you have to say?

Topic 1: Creation of a Motiti Island Exclusion Zone

• 12 submissions were received and 10 individuals completed a 'quick poll'.
• 83% of submissions supported the proposed change, whilst 17% supported the status quo.
• 90% of those completing the quick poll supported the proposed change, whilst 10% supported the status quo.

Topic 2: Prohibited Anchoring in the Tauranga Harbour shipping channels

• 29 submissions were received and 48 individuals completed a 'quick poll'
• 31% of submissions supported the proposed change, whilst 62% supported the status quo and 7% proposed alternatives. Some of the alternatives proposed included: Prohibiting anchoring from sunset to sunrise (i.e. nighttime restrictions), restricting diving in the shipping channel, and prohibiting anchoring on weekdays only.
• 40% of those completing the quick poll supported the proposed change, whilst 58% supported the status quo and 2% were unsure.

What happens next?

Regional Council staff will compile a recommendation report for the Regional Council to consider at their meeting on Thursday 26 March. This will include a summary of the public submissions and pre-engagement feedback gained from meetings with iwi, hapū, local boating clubs and the Port of Tauranga. The Regional Council will also hear verbal submissions on this date.