Navigation markers not for mooring

For immediate release: Friday 19 August 2011

Bay of Plenty Regional Council is reminding boaties that navigation markers are not for mooring boats.

Two large navigation markers have gone missing in recent months from an aquaculture farm situated about nine kilometres north of Ōpōtiki.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Harbourmaster – Eastern, Brian Spake said there is a continuing problem with boats tying up illegally to the navigation markers which identify the area of the aquaculture farm, and believes this has contributed to the loss of the markers.

“It’s an offence within the Navigation Safety Bylaw to do this and it carries an infringement fine of $200,” Mr Spake said.

“The markers are there for navigational purposes only. However, boaties are welcome to tie up to the actual marine farm mussel buoys.”

Mr Spake said any sightings of the missing markers should be reported to the Harbourmaster by telephone on 07 3088570 or via Coastguard Radio on VHF channel 80.

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