Unlicensed operators are liable to an instant fine or prosecution upon discovery.
To request more information or to discuss a proposed operation:
Guide to Boating and Water Sports in Tasman District (pdf 3.3 MB)
Application for Commercial Vessel Operation Licence (pdf 306 KB)
You must have a licence in order to operate a commercial service - including any scheduled, non-scheduled or rental service.
Licences will only be issued when Council is satisfied that the operation;
In addition to the national requirements, commercial vessel operators wishing to operate anywhere within the Tasman District territory include;
Are subject to the requirement under the Navigation Safety Bylaw to hold either;
The primary objective of this requirement is to preserve the District’s reputation, as a safe and enjoyable place for tourism, boating and watersports.
Accordingly, the requirement is not currently applied to genuine commercial fishing vessels and genuine workboats who do not carry passengers or frequent the more popular parts of the coastline.
If you intend to hire a vessel or other watercraft to anyone, or transport people who have paid for an experience for example;
Please contact the council with your intentions via the Harbourmaster or Tasman District Council
Small-scale operations may apply for an exemption from the requirement to hold a licence for example;
A campground or motel hiring or loaning small unpowered dinghies, sailboats or paddlecraft as ‘part of the package’
No annual charges apply if an exemption is held, but a renewal date of three to five years will be specified. The operator will be required to demonstrate that the equipment is fit for purpose and that appropriate customer briefing and supervision procedures are documented. A very simple plan in most cases, to the satisfaction of the Harbourmaster.
This bylaw covers all navigable waterways in the Tasman District and is aimed at ensuring the safety of users on these waterways including rivers and lakes. It sets out safe practices for people using these waterways for water skiing, swimming, boating, kayaking or other water activities safely, by seeking to reduce the conflicts between different activities.
We're currently working on drafting a new Navigation Safety Bylaw. Learn more and get involved in the process on Shape Tasman.
Commercial Operator’s Licence |
Charges from 1 July 2024 incl. GST |
Application Fee Payable on initial application and in addition to the annual fee (plus reimbursement for any reasonable and necessary additional costs incurred by Council in assessing an application, e.g. evaluation of seaworthiness, qualifications and experience). |
$309.00 |
Annual Fee For each multiple of either one power-driven vessel or up to a total of 15 kayaks, rafts, waka or similar vessels that are not power-driven with greater than 10hpw. |
$399.00 |
Late Payment Fee |
Additional 20% |
If a motorised vessel of any size is being used for ‘hire and reward’ in any way, then a number of requirements under The Maritime Transport Act 1994 and the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992. Maritime Rules also apply.
The Maritime Operator Safety System (MOSS) came into effect on 1 July 2014, replacing the former Safe Ship Management system. MOSS requires maritime operators to develop and maintain their own safety system covering all vessels in their operation. By putting a bigger focus on safety for vessel owners and operators, MOSS will improve safety outcomes.
Commercial fishing vessels are subject to similar requirements, and must be registered with the Ministry of Fisheries.
Any local enquiries regarding qualifying as a commercial skipper, or to bring a vessel into commercial operation, should be directed;
Maritime New Zealand’s office
Industry Liaison Advisor
36 Graham Street, Port Nelson
Phone 03 548 2434
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