THE 5 KNOT RULE AND NAVIGATION LIGHTS

The 5 knot rule

• 5 knot quiz
Stick to the 5 knot rule
Go no faster than 5 knots (a fast walking pace) within:

50m of a vessel or swimmer
200m of the shore, a diver’s flag, a wharf or other structure.
The 5 knot rule may be reduced or uplifted in some areas. Talk with your local harbourmaster or check out where the rule varies.

Read the full clause about vessel speed in the navigation safety bylaw.

Who the rule is for
The 5 knot rule is for all recreational vessels, including personal water craft (jetskis).

Where the rule applies
The 5 knot rule is for all coastal and inland water ways (except where specified in the navigation safety bylaw).

Lights for small craft

Out at night? Show a light!
A power driven vessel over 12 metres but less than 50 metres in length must display red and green side lights, a white stern light and a white masthead light. A power driven vessel less than 12 metres in length may combine its stern and masthead lights to one all round white light, side lights must also be displayed. A power driven vessel less than 7 metres in length and with a maximum speed of 7 knots may exhibit an all round white light.
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If your boat is at anchor at night, and is less than 50 metres in length, you must show an all round white light where it will be visible from all directions.


Lights must be switched on from sunset to sunrise and during times of poor visibility such as rain or fog.


Lights have a minimum range of 1 nautical mile for sidelights and 2 nautical miles for white lights.


Check that the lights fitted to your boat are showing through the correct arc.


Sailing boats have different light configuration requirements. Check with www.maritimenz.govt.nz for more detail.