Navigation Safety Bylaw Review

Consultation on the proposed changed to the Navigation Safety Bylaw has closed.

Submissions are being summarised and a hearing date will be set soon.

Southland’s lakes, rivers, and coastline are changing – and so are the ways we use them. The draft bylaw includes new rules for open water swimming, personal watercraft, and more.

In the ten years since the current bylaw was last reviewed and updated, we've observed changes in the use of some areas, the emergence of new uses and technologies, and opportunities to improve alignment across best practice for navigation safety bylaws and maritime regulations.

Key proposed changes:

• New safety rules for open water swimming
• Stronger requirements for vessel communication equipment
• New reserved swimming area at Steamer’s Beach, Lake Te Anau
• Transfer of personal watercraft (Jetski) rules from Coastal Plan
• Updated outdated provision and improved clarity

📅Consultation Dates: 15 December 2025 – 16 February 2026

🌐Submit your feedback below or download the PDF submission form.

📞Or call: 0800 76 88 45

📍Hard copies available at Environment Southland, 220 North Road, Invercargill, council offices and libraries around the region.

📍Chat to us about the changes at events this summer - A+P Shows and the Southern Field Days.