Find the marine biosecurity rules for your region
It’s a boatie basic to know the biosecurity rules for your region, along with safety and navigational rules. Also, when you’re making plans to travel to another region, always be sure to check any biosecurity rules that apply there.
The marine biosecurity rules typically cover fouling and what you need to do to avoid spreading invasive species. They may include rules about how you clean.
North Island
Northland Regional Council: Marine pest and pathway rules
Auckland Council; Prevent pests from spreading
Waikato Regional Council: Plant and animal pests in our region
Bay of Plenty Regional Council: Marine pests
Gisborne District Council: Marine biosecurity
Hawke’s Bay Regional Council: Marine pests
South Island
Top of the South Island and Wellington: Marine biosecurity rules and requirements
Marlborough District Council: Marine biosecurity
Environment Canterbury: Marine pests
Environment Southland: Marine biosecurity
Environment Southland: Fiordland management plan
Biosecurity rules at marinas
Many marinas follow the '6-or-1' rule. This means that boats must have been anti-fouled within 6 months of entering the marina, or lifted and hauled out within 1 month.
Check with the marina before you book.
Special rules apply in some areas
There are rules in place for some marine areas that you are legally required to follow when boating and fishing. For example, in the Fiordland area, you'll need a clean vessel pass.
Special rules for Fiordland Marine area – Environment Southland
