I had the privilege today of attending the blessing of HM Kotare – the Waikato Regional Council Harbourmaster’s new vessel which will operate in Mercury Bay. Matua Joe Davis of Ngati Hei carried out the blessing.

The vessel has been purpose-built for local conditions.  It’s nimble, safe to operate and allows harbourmaster Peter Head to comfortably navigate Mercury Bay and beyond, and engage with boaties in both an educational and compliance role.

During the election campaign people were often confused about what Regional Council does and I suspect many people were unaware of its responsibility for Marine Services.  The Council is charged with providing safe and navigable waterways.  This includes over 1000 km of coastline in the region, and also navigable lakes and rivers.

Find out more about these vital Regional Council functions here – https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/services/regional-services/navigation-safety/

(hopefully not too far into the future that grunty motor will be electric?)