Boaties, kayakers, water-skiers and all other recreational users of Waikato waterways are being asked for their submissions as Environment Waikato reviews its Navigation Safety Bylaw.

This is the second review of the bylaw, which covers all navigable waterways in the Waikato region except Lake Taupo. The bylaw aims to protect users of these resources by setting out safe practices and reducing conflicts between different surface water activities.

“Public feedback will play a key role in our bylaw review, so it’s really important people take this opportunity to share their views and opinions with us,” said Environment Waikato’s navigation safety programme manager David Pearks.

“If there are issues out there, we need to know about them.”

The review ensures the bylaw is consistent with Maritime New Zealand regulations and Environment Waikato’s harbour risk management plan, currently under development. It also addresses issues created by the changing use of the region’s waterways.

“We have received a lot of useful feedback and suggestions on the existing bylaw since it became operative in October 2002, and this will also be incorporated into the review,” Mr Pearks said.

Environment Waikato invited interested stakeholders to a round of public meetings held around the region last November as part of the review process.

A proposed draft bylaw is now available and can be obtained by calling Environment Waikato on 0800 800 401. Instructions on how to make written and oral submissions are attached to the document.

Anyone wanting to have their say on the draft bylaw must make a written submission to council before 5pm on Monday 20 March. A hearing has been scheduled for Tuesday 4 April.