Vessels call Whangarei Harbour Radio on VHF Channel 16 and 19 and will be advised to standby for a pilot 2 mile South East of the Fairway Buoy or to anchor at Anchoring Zones A or B (at the masters discretion). Vessels must remain a minimum of 1.25nm from the Fairway Buoy at all times.
The pilot boards by pilot boat at the pilot boarding ground. The vessel proceeds in under pilot instructions. The pilot is in radio contact with Northport staff through Whangarei Harbour Radio on VHF Channel 19.
The tugs will meet vessels at either No. 4 or No 9 buoys depending on their size. Vessels will invariably berth to the tide.
Customs, MAF and Marinas
All first port overseas yachts must report to Whangarei Harbour radio. Yachts inbound from overseas
are directed to the Customs and MAF clearance berths at Marsden Cove Marina – The Entrance
Channel charted position is approx. 35º 49.85’S 174º 28.45’E.
The Customs and MAF Departments should be advised of the yachts arrival time at the berth by phone,
- Customs: Phone 0292 509305
- MAF Whangarei – phone 430 7848.
This phone service can be provided by Whangarei Harbour Radio. Yachts requiring berths in the Town Basin or Kissing Point Marina can contact the Marina Office on VHF Channel 64 or telephone (09) - 438 2033.
Commercial Vessels, Fishing Boats and Other Craft
All commercial vessels arriving/departing the Northport, NZRC, Portland and Whangarei Harbour must call
Whangarei Harbour Radio prior to entry into the harbour and prior to leaving the berth for sea.
Distress Calls
Distress calls are handled by Northland Maritime Radio which is a Government radio service.
Mayday calls will take precedence over shipping operations.
The local search and rescue centre is the Whangarei Police.
Whangarei Police: 09 - 4304500
Maritime NZ – Emergency Number: 0508 472269
NZ Rescue Co-ordination Centre: 04 9148380