Cruising and Sailing New Zealand North Island:
New Zealand’s North Island offers a wealth of diverse cruising opportunities for yachtsmen, blending dramatic coastlines, vibrant marine life, and welcoming communities. From the subtropical waters of the Bay of Islands to the rugged, wind-swept shores of Taranaki, the North Island is a true sailor’s paradise. This guide provides an overview of key destinations, anchorages, local facilities, and must-see attractions for anyone planning a voyage in these waters.
1. Bay of Islands: Subtropical Splendor
The Bay of Islands is often the first port of call for international yachts arriving in New Zealand, and for good reason. This subtropical haven boasts over 140 islands, secluded anchorages, and historical sites.
- Anchoring Highlights – there ar over 100 bays and spots to discover and many are breathtaking.
- Opua: The primary customs clearance port with excellent marina facilities.
- Russell: Known as the “Hellhole of the Pacific” in its whaling days, now a quaint town with good moorings.
- Urupukapuka Island: Offers safe anchorage and hiking trails with panoramic views.
- What to Do:
- Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to learn about New Zealand’s founding history.
- Explore the underwater world at the Poor Knights Islands, considered one of the world’s best dive sites.
2. Auckland: The City of Sails
Auckland, often dubbed the “City of Sails,” is the yachting hub of New Zealand. With over one-third of its residents owning a boat, the city thrives on its maritime culture.
- Marinas and Anchorages:
- Westhaven Marina: One of the largest marinas in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Viaduct Harbour: Ideal for luxury yachts and a gateway to Auckland’s vibrant dining scene.
- Exploring the Gulf:
- The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park encompasses a myriad of islands like Waiheke, known for its vineyards, and Rangitoto, with its volcanic cone.
- Sailing to Great Barrier Island (Aotea) offers a unique adventure, blending stunning natural beauty with rich cultural experiences. Located approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Auckland, the island is accessible by sea, making it a favored destination for sailors seeking both challenge and tranquility.Approach and Navigation:
- Routes: Departing from Auckland, sailors typically navigate through the Hauraki Gulf, passing landmarks such as Rangitoto Island and the Coromandel Peninsula. The journey covers about 50 nautical miles, depending on the chosen route.
- Conditions: The Hauraki Gulf is known for variable weather patterns. It’s essential to monitor forecasts closely and plan for potential changes in wind and sea conditions.
Anchorages and Moorings:
- Port Fitzroy: Located on the western side, this harbor provides sheltered anchorage with facilities like fuel and provisions.
- Whangaparapara Harbour: Another well-protected spot, offering moorings and access to local amenities.
- Tryphena Harbour: Situated on the southern coast, it’s a convenient entry point with anchorage options and nearby services.
Facilities and Services:
- Marinas: While Great Barrier Island doesn’t have large-scale marinas, several harbors offer mooring facilities. It’s advisable to contact local operators in advance to secure a spot.
- Supplies: Basic provisions are available in settlements like Claris and Tryphena. However, stocking up before departure is recommended due to limited supplies on the island.
Activities and Attractions:
- Hiking: The island boasts numerous trails, including the Aotea Track, offering panoramic views and encounters with native flora and fauna.
- Hot Springs: Natural hot springs near Whangaparapara provide a relaxing retreat after a day of sailing.
3. Coromandel Peninsula: Rugged Beauty
The Coromandel Peninsula offers a mix of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and lush native forests. It’s a slightly more remote cruising destination but worth every nautical mile.
- Key Stops:
- Whitianga Harbour: A well-protected anchorage with easy access to hot springs and local markets.
- Cathedral Cove: Accessible by tender, this iconic rock arch is a must-see.
- Activities:
- Snorkeling in Gemstone Bay.
- Digging your own thermal pool at Hot Water Beach.
4. Bay of Plenty: Rich Waters
As the name suggests, the Bay of Plenty offers abundant marine resources and opportunities for exploration. It’s a favored stop for yachts heading southward.
- Marinas:
- Tauranga Bridge Marina: Provides full-service facilities and easy access to the city.
- Whakatane: A smaller but welcoming port for those venturing toward White Island.
- Unique Experiences:
- Explore White Island (Whakaari), New Zealand’s most active volcano.
- Taste the region’s world-famous kiwifruit.
5. East Cape: Untouched Wilderness
The East Cape is one of the most remote and untouched parts of New Zealand, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience for adventurous sailors.
- Anchorages:
- Hicks Bay: A calm and sheltered stopover.
- Tolaga Bay: Home to the longest wharf in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Local Culture:
- Experience Māori culture firsthand in the small coastal settlements.
- Visit the East Cape Lighthouse for stunning views of the Pacific.
6. Wellington: The Capital’s Call
Nestled at the southern tip of the North Island, Wellington is both the cultural and political heart of New Zealand. The city’s harbor is a natural amphitheater, offering safe moorings and a vibrant waterfront.
- Marinas:
- Chaffers Marina: Located in the heart of the city, it provides easy access to Wellington’s attractions.
- Seaview Marina: A quieter option with excellent facilities.
- Things to See:
- The Te Papa Museum, showcasing New Zealand’s natural and cultural history.
- Cable Car rides offering views of the city and beyond.
7. Navigational Notes and Weather Considerations
New Zealand’s North Island is known for its variable weather patterns, influenced by the Roaring Forties and the surrounding ocean. Here are some key considerations:
- Seasons:
- Summer (December to February) is ideal for cruising, offering warm weather and calm seas.
- Winter months can bring stronger winds and cooler temperatures but fewer crowds.
- Prevailing Winds:
- Northerly winds dominate in summer, while westerly and southerly systems are common in winter.
- Hazards:
- Keep an eye out for submerged rocks and shifting sandbanks, especially near river mouths.
- Tides can be strong, particularly in the Cook Strait and other narrow passages.
8. Maritime Services and Provisions
New Zealand’s North Island is well-equipped to support cruising yachts:
- Chandleries and Repairs:
- Auckland and Tauranga are major hubs for marine services.
- Smaller ports like Opua also cater to international yachts with comprehensive repair facilities.
- Customs and Biosecurity:
- New Zealand has strict biosecurity regulations. All yachts must declare food, plants, and animals on arrival.
- Fuel and Water:
- Most marinas provide refueling and potable water facilities. Plan ahead in remote areas like the East Cape.
9. Local Etiquette and Conservation
New Zealanders (Kiwis) are renowned for their hospitality and love of the outdoors. While cruising, keep these principles in mind:
- Respect Māori Traditions:
- Many anchorages have cultural significance to the Māori people. Seek permission when in doubt and respect local customs.
- Environmental Stewardship:
- Adhere to the “Clean Below? Good to Go!” campaign to prevent the spread of invasive marine species.
- Follow marine reserves’ rules, which often prohibit fishing and anchoring.
MARINAS
WEATHER
-41.24206 173.16673
WIND
SWELL
SEVERE WEATHER
NEW ZEALAND PILOT CHARTS
NEW ZEALAND Pilot Charts provide historic points and aggregated information of wind flows, air and ocean temperatures, wave heights, rain, barometric weight, and climate conditions at various seasons. This data was acquired from oceanographic and meteorologic perceptions over hundreds of years starting in the late eighteenth century. These diagrams are planned to help mariners choose routes around and approaching Cuba with respect to the normal climate and sea conditions using prevailing seasonal wind information.
PORTS OF ENTRY
DOCUMENTS
ENTRY EXIT REQUIREMENTS
DOCUMENTATION | |||||||||||||||
ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURES | Here is the Complete website and requirements including visas and TIP https://www.customs.govt.nz/personal/travel-to-and-from-nz/recreational-vessels-yachts-and-small-craft/ |
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Passport | Non NZ – AUS citizens | ||||||||||||||
Boat Documentation | Coast Guard Doc (Original) | ||||||||||||||
Insurance | |||||||||||||||
Crewlist | Required at checkin/out | ||||||||||||||
Zarpe | Required at checkin/out | ||||||||||||||
Fishing License | |||||||||||||||
Official Procedures | THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BR BROUGHT INTO NEW ZEALAND MAF BIO-SECURITY WILL DESTROY THE FOLLOWING ITEMS | ||||||||||||||
Official Country Visa | |||||||||||||||
Immigration Visa | NZ JUNE 2022 https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/travelling-by-private-yacht-or-aircraft-visitor-visaVisa applications open for travellers located in Pacific countriesFrom 16 May 2022 you can apply for a visitor visa to travel to New Zealand, but only if you are applying from one these Pacific Island Forum countries:the Cook Islands Federated States of Micronesia Fiji French Polynesia Kiribati New Caledonia Nauru Niue Palau Papua New Guinea Republic of the Marshall Islands Samoa Solomon Islands Tonga Tuvalu VanuatuYou can apply if you are a citizen of another country. But you must be applying from one of these Pacific Island forum countries.Travel conditionsPeople coming from most Pacific countries need to be eligible to travel to New Zealand. Eligible travellers include:New Zealand citizens or residents Australian citizens or permanent residents people who have a border exception, or people who are exempt from the border restrictions, or people who hold a valid temporary entry visa.With this visa you canVisit New Zealand on a private yacht or aircraft. Travel in and out of New Zealand for up to 3 months. Include your partner, and dependent children aged 19 and under, in your visa application.Entry permissionYou must apply for entry permission at an Immigration Control Area when you arrive in New Zealand by presenting yourself to an Immigration Officer within 72 hours of your arrival.Immigration Control AreaYou can be refused entry permission if:you do not meet our character requirements your circumstances have changed since you were granted a visa you refuse to let us take your photo or to provide us with your fingerprints or an iris scan, if asked for them you are unable to provide evidence of any onward travel or funds required by the conditions of your visa.If you are refused entry to New ZealandBefore you travel to New Zealand Travel If travelling in and out of New Zealand, a valid multiple entry travel condition is needed to return to New Zealand. Changing the conditions of a visitor visa If applying from inside New Zealand, we will normally give multiple entry travel conditions when we grant a student visa. If there are no multiple entry travel conditions and you leave New Zealand, the visa will expire. The travel conditions will be listed on the visa label, or in a visa letter. If you’re leaving New Zealand by commercial transport, you must have a ticket to leave New Zealand to a country you have the right to enter or enough money to buy one. If living on board a yacht, you must have NZ $400 a month to live on while in New Zealand or a sponsor. Acceptable sponsors You cannot work in New Zealand on this visa. You must leave New Zealand before your visa expires. You can apply for more visas to allow you to stay up to 9 months. Or up to 12 months, if: your yacht or aircraft needs repairs |
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Required Permits | |||||||||||||||
Upon Arrival Visit: | Immigration; Customs; Port Captain/Authority | ||||||||||||||
Upon Departure Visit: | Immigration; Customs; Port Captain | ||||||||||||||
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Recommended Agent: |
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Required Vaccinations | None | ||||||||||||||
Pets | MAF regulations prevail -> expect to pay 5000 – 1000 usd x animal Bio security rules – to get you started with this process follow this link >>> | ||||||||||||||
Currency: New Zealand dollar |
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MUST SEE
- Waiheke Island: Known for vineyards and beaches. Ideal in summer (December to February). Check Out Stonyridge
- Waitomo Caves: Explore glowworm-lit caves. Accessible year-round; spring (September to November) offers mild weather.
- Hobbiton Movie Set: Tour the iconic film set. Open year-round; spring and autumn (March to May) provide pleasant conditions.
- Rotorua Geothermal Areas: Experience geysers and hot springs. Best in autumn and spring for comfortable temperatures.
- Te Puia: Discover Māori culture and geothermal wonders. Year-round destination.
- Lake Taupō: Engage in water sports and fishing. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities.
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Hike through volcanic landscapes. Best in summer; check weather conditions.
- Mount Taranaki: Hike or photograph this symmetrical volcano. Summer offers clear views.
- Coromandel Peninsula: Visit Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove. Summer is perfect for beach activities.
- Bay of Islands: Explore 144 islands by boat. Summer provides warm weather for sailing.
- Cape Reinga: Visit the northernmost point where two oceans meet. Accessible year-round; summer offers longer daylight.
- Ninety Mile Beach: Drive along this expansive beach. Best in summer; ensure to check tide schedules.
- Wellington: Explore the capital’s museums and cafes. Year-round destination; summer has festivals.
- Te Papa Museum: Discover New Zealand’s history and culture. Open year-round.
- Weta Workshop: Tour the studio behind famous film effects. Year-round attraction.
- Napier: Admire Art Deco architecture. Best during the Art Deco Festival in February.
- Hawke’s Bay: Enjoy wine tasting tours. Autumn (March to May) is harvest season.
- Gisborne: Be the first to see the sunrise. Summer offers clear mornings.
- East Cape Lighthouse: Visit the easternmost point. Accessible year-round; summer provides better weather.
- Whanganui River: Canoe through scenic landscapes. Summer is ideal for water activities.
- Auckland Sky Tower: Enjoy panoramic views of the city. Best visited year-round.
REPAIRS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS
New Zealand’s offers a comprehensive range of marine services catering to various needs, from vessel maintenance and repairs to marine construction and diving operations. Below is an overview of notable providers across the region:
Features two travel lifts: one with a 100-tonne capacity and 7.8m beam, and another with a 30-tonne capacity. Offers hardstand services for maintenance and storage.
Operates a 50-tonne travel lift and a 60-tonne haul-out trailer, providing comprehensive boatyard facilities and 20 dedicated work berths.
Utilizes a 70-tonne travel lift and offers hardstand space for 50–60 boats, along with on-site marine services.
Equipped with a 12m-wide boat haul-out ramp and a Roodberg HBC80-VEL hydraulic slipway trailer, capable of handling vessels up to 35m in length and 80 tonnes.
Offers dual travel lifts: a 100-tonne lift for vessels up to 10m beam and a 560-tonne lift for vessels up to 13.5m beam, along with extensive hardstand and refit facilities.
Operates two travel lifts with lifting capacities of 35 and 75 tonnes, providing a range of services including lifting, water blasting, and anti-fouling.
Situated within Tauranga Bridge Marina, this facility offers a professional boat haul-out service with hardstand facilities for 30 freestanding vessels.
Features a travel lift capable of lifting vessels up to 44 tonnes and 5.4m beam, along with a dedicated visitor dock and hardstand services.
These facilities provide a range of services, including lifting, maintenance, and storage, catering to various vessel sizes and requirements.
1. Marine Pro
Specializing in marine operations throughout the Hauraki Gulf and the North Island, Marine Pro offers services including vessel support, marine logistics, and biosecurity compliance. Their fleet is equipped to handle diverse marine-based operations.
2. Bay Providors
Serving most North Island ports, Bay Providors is a one-stop shop for marine services, stores, and provisions. They supply bonded stores, cabin stores, medical supplies, navigation equipment, and more, ensuring vessels are well-equipped for their voyages.
3. METCO Marine Services
Operating under METCO Group, they provide marine surveys, consultancy, and management services. Their expertise extends to large yacht sales and purchases, as well as materials testing, catering to both marine and construction sectors.
4. Price Provedors
With a professional network across all North Island ports, Price Provedors offers ship supplies, equipment, and technical support. They are approved food distributors by New Zealand’s Ministry of Primary Industries and operate customs-bonded stores.
5. Lakeland Marine
Based in Taupo, Lakeland Marine specializes in new and used boat sales, parts, and servicing. They are authorized dealers for Bayliner boats and Mercury Marine engines, providing comprehensive support for recreational boating.
6. Marine Services Auckland Limited (MSAL)
A New Zealand-owned company, MSAL specializes in marine support, including salvage, heavy marine transport, wreck removals, and construction projects. With over 40 years of experience, they offer 24-hour support across the North Island.
7. Total Marine Group
Providing marine construction, engineering, and dredging services, Total Marine Group operates in New Zealand and beyond. They are committed to environmentally sustainable practices and offer cost-effective solutions to clients.
8. Walker Marine Services Ltd
With over 25 years of surveying experience, Walker Marine Services covers nautical investigations, cargo surveys, and marine insurance claims. Their expertise spans various types of marine work, ensuring comprehensive support for maritime operations.
EMERGENCIES AND SAR INFO
SEAR AND RESCUE
JRCC NEW ZEALAND (RCCNZ)
Type: JRCC, Country: New Zealand, SRR: SRR NEW ZEALAND
Latitude, Longitude:
(-41.1883545,174.9449921)
Telephone:
+64 4 577 8030
Email:
Fax:
+64 4 577 8038 alternate fax: 64-4-577-8041
Website:
INMARSAT:
Sat-C (582)451 200 067
Telex:
Notes:
The NZSRR is bounded to the:
(a) West by meridian 163° 00’E.
(b) East by meridian 131° 00’W.
(c) South to the South Pole.
(d) North by a line joining:
25° 00’S., 163° 00’E.
25° 00’S., 180° 00’W.
05° 00’S., 171° 00’W.
05° 00’S., 157° 00’W.
30° 00’S., 157° 00’W.
30°00’S., 131° 00’W.