Vessel speeds (5 knot rule)
The 5 knot rule for the Waikato region varies depending on whether you are using inland or coastal waters.
Inland
Go no faster than 5 knots (a fast walking pace) within:
- 50m of a vessel or swimmer
- 30m of the shore
- 200m of any vessel that is flying a dive flag.
For full information, go to clause 2.4 of the Navigation Safety Bylaw.
Coastal
Go no faster than 5 knots (a fast walking pace) within:
- 50m of another vessel or swimmer
- 200m of the shore, any structure, or any vessel flying a dive flag.
For full information go to clause 2.5 of the Navigation Safety Bylaw.
Who the rule is for
The 5 knot rule is for all recreational vessels, including jetskis.
There are 5 knot zones within some boating areas, set by the Navigation Safety Bylaw. To read location specific information, go to Schedule 1 of the bylaw.
Where the rule varies
In the following areas, the 5 knot rule varies. You can find out the vessel speed rules for each area in the Navigation Safety Bylaw.
| Areas where the 5 knot rule varies | |
| Awakino River | Mercury Bay |
| Coromandel Harbour | Mōkau River |
| Firth of Thames | Motukākaho Island upstream to Meremere |
| Hamilton | Ngāruawāhia |
| Kāwhia Harbour | Port Waikato |
| Lake Arapuni | Tairua Estuary |
| Lake Karāpiro | Waikato River – Rangiriri |
| Lake Maraetai | Waikato River (Huntly) Lakes Wāhi, Weaver and Kainui |
| Lake Ōhakuri | Whāingaroa (Raglan) Harbour |
| Lake Whakamaru | Whangamatā Harbour |
| Lakes Aratiatia, Ātiamuri and Waipapa | Whangapoua Harbour |
| Marokopa River | |
Breaking the rules
Waikato Regional Council maritime officers on patrol can issue infringement notices that can lead to fines of up $200 for people breaking the rules on the water.
If you break the rules, you’re not just breaking the law – you could damage property and cause injury or loss of life.
