Yachting New Zealand Safety Regulations 2025-2028
These regulations apply to yachts competing in yacht racing events in New Zealand. It came into effect on January 1, 2025 and is available to download below.
A summary of changes that will be in the 2025-28 Safety Regulations can be found below.
Yachting New Zealand Safety Regulations 2025-2028
These regulations apply to yachts competing in yacht racing events in New Zealand. These regulations came into effect in January 2025 and are available to view electronically here.
Updated 1 July 2024
Changes to administrative arrangements for craft and crew adequacy for vessels going overseas
Administrative arrangements to meet the section 21 adequacy requirements for New Zealand registered recreational craft going overseas were previously delivered by Yachting NZ and Yachting NZ Inspectors under delegation from the Director of Maritime NZ (referred to as a CAT 1 Certificate).
From 1 July 2024, Maritime NZ will assume the administration and delivery of these requirements.
Those wanting to take their New Zealand registered recreational craft overseas will now apply to Maritime NZ for an International Voyage Certificate (Pleasure Craft).
For information on how to apply for an International Voyage Certificate please go to the Maritime New Zealand website here: https://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/recreational/boating-basics/taking-your-boat-overseas/
Any enquiries can be sent to:
RecreationalInternationalVoyage@maritimenz.govt.nz
Yachting NZ will continue to manage Category 1-5 inspections for boats competing in yacht races. If you are participating in a yacht race overseas (and your craft’s voyage starts in New Zealand), you will still need to meet the requirements under Section 21, and apply for an International Voyage Certificate (Pleasure Craft). You will also still need a Cat 1 Certificate.
Yachting New Zealand Safety Regulations
- Part I Centreboard, Open Yachts and Sailboards
- Part II Offshore & Coastal Racing and Cruising
- Part III Trailer Yachts & Sports Trailer Yachts
- Part IV Sports Boats
Part V Sport Multihull and Foiling Yachts
Appendices
- SR Appendix 1 Medical Stores
- SR Appendix 2 Life Rafts and Grab Bags
- SR Appendix 3 Safety Harnesses and Tethers
- SR Appendix 4 Lifejackets, Impact Vests, Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) and Lifebuoys
- SR Appendix 5 Yacht Manual Example
- SR Appendix 6 Offshore Personal Safety Training
- SR Appendix 7 Construction Standards
- SR Appendix 8 Racing Yachts departing New Zealand for overseas