Managing our Environment

Harbourmaster

Our Harbourmaster works to ensure that our waterways are safe for everyone to enjoy.

The Otago Regional Council regulates ports, harbours, waters, and maritime-related activities in Otago under the Maritime Transport Act (1994). We cover the Otago region, apart from the Queenstown Lakes District which has its own Harbourmaster under the district council. Head to Queenstown Lakes District Council to the contact the Queenstown Harbourmaster: qldc.govt.nz.

Our key functions are to:

oversee maritime safety
promote safe boating and maintain safe boating signage at local boat ramps
make sure navigation aids, lights and beacons are in place and maintained well
remove hazards, such as trees and abandoned vessels
work with water users and other stakeholders on matters related to the harbour and waterways
let boaties know about changes to local rules and regulations
work with Port Otago to keep commercial shipping and related activities in Otago harbour safe
respond to marine oil spill events
review applications to hold an event on the water
issue Harbourmaster instructions from time to time

Report a marine incident

Visitor Mooring Bookings

Report Pollution

Otago Navigational Safety Bylaw

Application to hold a special on-water event in Otago

Bar Crossing & Taieri Mouth Bar Camera

Queenstown Lakes Navigational Safety Bylaws

Recreational Water Use

Commercial use of the coast and harbours

Key contacts

Navigation Warnings and Alerts

💬 Have your say!

Managing our Environment

Harbourmaster