The Council maintains the following boat launch services for public use. Charges apply for the use of boat ramps. Refer to notices displayed on-site for details.

La Grande Swim:  24 February 2024

  • Akaroa Recreation Ground Ramp: Closed from 12pm to 6:15pm.
  • Daly's Ramp: Closed from 1pm to 6:15pm.

SailGP Season 4: 7 to 30 March 2024

  • Naval Point public boat ramp closed.
  • Naval Point windsurf ramp closed.

Canoe landings

Address Location
Avonside Drive, between Swanns Road and Stanmore Road Bridge Avonside
Corner Medway Street and River Road Avonside
Corner Retreat Road and Avonside Drive Avonside
Cambridge Terrace, between Barbadoes Street and Fitzgerald Avenue Central city
Gould Crescent Woolston
Corner Connal and McRae Streets Woolston
Corner Rutherford and Lane Streets Woolston

 

Water safety

Know before you go! Get familiar with the New Zealand Boating Safety Code:

1. Life jackets

Wear them. Boats, especially those under 6m in length, can sink very quickly. Wearing a life jacket increases your survival time in the water.

2. Skipper responsibility

The skipper is responsible for the safety of everyone on board and for the safe operation of the boat. Stay within the limits of your vessel and your experience.

3. Communications

Take two separate waterproof ways of communicating so we can help you if you get into difficulties.

4. Marine weather

New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the local marine weather forecast before you go and expect both weather and sea state changes.

5. Avoid alcohol

Safe boating and alcohol do not mix. Things can change quickly on the water. You need to stay alert and aware.

Visit New Zealand Coastguard(external link), Maritime New Zealand(external link) and Water Safety New Zealand(external link) for excellent safety tips and emergency information.