We ramp up on-water patrols and enforcement of our Waikato Regional Navigation Safety Bylaw over the summer holiday in popular boating destinations such as Raglan, Kāwhia, Karāpiro, Arapuni, Waikato River, Tairua, Whitianga, Whangamatā and the Firth of Thames.

The Environmental Performance Committee, which is made up of six councillors and meets every three months, is responsible for overseeing the effectiveness of, and compliance with, the council’s regulatory responsibilities, including monitoring the effectiveness of the council’s navigation safety bylaw.

We partner with iwi Māori to ensure their values, knowledge, and aspirations are reflected in the management of maritime activities.

• Co-governance arrangements shape maritime plans and policies, embedding Māori perspectives in decision-making.
• Iwi are consulted on maritime plans and policies, projects, and water safety initiatives, particularly in culturally significant areas.
• We work with Waikato-Tainui to manage Authorised Customary Activities related to navigation safety within the Waikato River co-management area, as outlined in the Joint Management Agreement between Waikato Raupatu River Trust and Waikato Regional Council.

Through these partnerships, Waikato Regional Council upholds its Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments while fostering safe, sustainable, and culturally informed maritime management.