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Commercial Operators

Seafarers

Recreational boaties

Surveyors and third parties

Design and construction standards

Design and Construction and equipment standards

The 40-Series maritime rules set the design, construction and equipment standards for commercial vessels to ensure those ships operating in New Zealand waters are appropriate for their intended use and are carrying the required safety equipment.

There are different rules depending on your operation type and requirements can vary depending on where you are operating. As you progress further out to sea you will need increasingly robust safety equipment.

All New Zealand commercial vessels must be equipped with radio communication equipment, lifesaving appliances and firefighting appliances that meet the applicable performance standards in the rules.

A Recognised Surveyor can help you understand which rules will apply to your vessel and what safety equipment you will need.

Survey and inspection requirements

Maritime rules require you to hold a valid Certificate of Survey to confirm your vessel is safe for the intended operation. You need a valid Certificate of Survey to enter the Maritime Operator Safety System, then regular ongoing checks to confirm your vessel remains fit for purpose and compliant.

A Recognised Surveyor can carry out your survey and help you understand the requirements.

Lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are starting to become common on commercial vessels either as part of an electric propulsion system or as a replacement to conventional battery technology. However, there are particular risks associated with the switch to and use of lithium-ion batteries.

Maintenance and repairs

You need to maintain your vessel and ensure it stays in a good state of repair. The maritime rules require an operator to develop and apply a maintenance plan that describes the policies and procedures to maintain the ship, including the ship's hull, decks, and superstructure, and the ship’s machinery, equipment, and critical shipboard systems.

You should also contact your surveyor after undertaking a major repair to confirm your Certificate of Survey remains valid.

Making modifications or alterations

If you make a significant alterations or modifications to your vessel, you could affect its stability and overall safety.

You should discuss any changes with your Recognised Surveyor and confirm the modifications or alterations do not require a change to your Certificate of Survey.

Building overseas or bringing in a second-hand vessel

While international standards and classification society (‘class’) rules are widely respected, they are not always suitable for smaller vessels or the operating conditions in New Zealand.

The 40 Series rules will apply to your vessel if you want to operate it in MOSS. To avoid unnecessary hassle in getting your overseas-built MOSS ships running, it is important to:

  • understand which rules apply
  • get independent legal and technical advice before signing contracts  
  • when in doubt, seek guidance early from Maritime NZ early on in the process.  

We are here to help. Contact Maritime NZ or a Recognised Surveyor early in your process so we can help clarify which rules apply and point you toward resources to support compliance.