Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has given the green light to its new Navigation Safety Bylaw 2025, which determines the rules for using the district’s waterways.  

Councillors approved the new bylaw at a council meeting on Thursday (March 20) and the new rules - which deputy mayor Quentin Smith described as “evolution not revolution” - came into effect immediately.

“The panel heard from a diverse range of waterways users, including jetboaters and lake swimmers, whose insights helped shape the new bylaw,” Quentin said.

“Through the process the panel aimed to balance safety and accessibility for all water users, maintaining and improving many ski lanes for better functionality and safety. 

“While not prohibiting jumping off the Albert Town Bridge, we have introduced upstream and downstream vessel passage lanes, and new rules for vessel identification and communication devices.”

He said the measures “will enhance safety without being overly restrictive”. 

The adoption of the bylaw marks the culmination of a comprehensive consultation process, which included a series of public meetings in September last year, a submission period in October, and subsequent hearings and deliberations.  

Under the Navigation Safety Bylaw 2025, several ski lanes originally proposed for removal will be retained (including all Upper Clutha ski lanes, though some have been amended); a rule has been introduced requiring the carriage of communication devices to enhance safety on waterways; and the bylaw also sets out a new framework to manage temporary events on the water.

The new bylaw has retained ski lanes which were originally mooted for removal.

Maps showing the location and size of all ski lanes can be found in Schedule 1 of the bylaw. 

QLDC waterways regulatory services manager Craig Fahey said he encouraged all water users to become familiar with the updates to the newly adopted bylaw.

“By understanding these changes, we can all do our part to keep our waterways safe, enjoyable, and accessible for everyone who loves being out on the water.” 

New signage and educational materials addressing the changes will be rolled out over the coming months.

Find more information on the Navigation Safety Bylaw 2025 and its implementation, including a copy of the final bylaw and key details, here.

PHOTOS: Wānaka App