Boat Navigation Lights NZ — Rules, Types & Where to Buy

If you're boating in New Zealand, navigation lights aren't optional — they're a legal requirement after sunset and in poor visibility. Getting the right lights for your boat isn't just about compliance: it keeps you and other boaters safe on the water.

What Navigation Lights Does Your Boat Need?

The lights you need depend on your boat's size and type. Here's the NZ summary based on Maritime Rules Part 22:

Boats Under 7 Metres (Most Trailer Boats)

• Option A: A single all-round white light visible from all directions — the simplest setup.
• Option B: Separate red (port), green (starboard), and white (stern) lights.

Most Kiwi trailer boats use a combination nav light on the bow (red/green) plus a stern white light.

Boats 7–12 Metres

• Sidelights — Red (port) and green (starboard), visible 1 nautical mile.
• Stern light — White, visible 2 nm.
• Optional masthead light — White, forward-facing, visible 2 nm (power vessels).

Sailing Vessels

• Sidelights and stern light, OR a combined tricolour light at the masthead.
• Under power (engine on), you need a masthead light too.

LED vs Incandescent Nav Lights

LED is the clear winner for boats:

• Uses 80–90% less power (critical on a 12V system)
• Lasts 50,000+ hours vs 1,000 hours for bulbs
• No heat, no bulb failures mid-trip
• Brighter and sharper visibility at the correct angles

All modern nav lights in our range are LED.

Deck & Courtesy Lights

Beyond navigation, good deck lighting makes night boating safer and more enjoyable:

• Cockpit lights — For rigging, bait prep, and working on deck
• Underwater lights — Attract bait fish and look amazing at anchor
• Courtesy lights — Step lights for walkways and gunwales

Shop Boat Lights at Action Outdoors

Browse our full range of marine lighting — 36 options including nav lights, deck lights, and courtesy lights. We also stock exterior marine lights for boats and RVs.

Call 09 820 8023 or email sales@actionoutdoors.kiwi.