The Harbourmaster’s Office is responsible for managing all maritime-related activities that may affect the safety of navigation of vessels on Canterbury’s many waterways. We oversee all rivers and lakes in the region as well as coastal areas up to 12 nautical miles offshore.

Work includes the operation of cruise ships and commercial ships, plus a wide range of recreational boating activities – that’s everything from kayaking to jet boating, sailing to stand up paddleboarding. We also manage swing moorings.

Basically, if you operate any type of vessel on any waterway in the Canterbury region, we're here to make sure you do it safely. Find out more about controls and limitations specified under the Navigation Safety Bylaw 2016 and Controls.

Commercial shipping

We oversee all cargo and fishing vessels, cruise ships, ferries, and tourism operators in Canterbury. You can find forms, rules, bylaw information here.

Recreational boating

Check out boating safety tips, the best way to report incidents, current boating notices, and local requirements.

Hazards

Check here for navigation safety hazards on waterways in the Canterbury region.

Swing moorings

The Harbourmaster's Office manages the placement and safety of swing moorings.

Meet the team

Introducing the people who work in the Harbourmaster's Office.