HOUSEBOAT HOLIDAYS

Where do I find Whangaroa Houseboat Holidays?

We will meet you at the Whangaroa Marina. There is safe car parking available here, and trollies available to load your gear. From here you are transferred in our water taxi to the houseboat.

Can anyone drive the houseboat?

YES! The only prerequisites are that you are over 25 years of age. On the day of your departure, you will be given a full briefing on the operation and navigation of your houseboat and then taken on a short cruise just to make sure you are confident before handing over the helm.

Do I need a licence to drive the boat?

No, you do not need a licence to drive the Maple Leaf. To read more about rules on the water, visit Maritime New Zealand’s website.

What do I bring?

All you need to bring is your food, beverages, personal toiletries, sun protection, a torch, beach towels, mobile phone and fishing gear. We recommend that you bring an extra chilly bin for cold drinks etc. and to freeze as many other items beforehand.

What does the houseboat come equipped with?

The Maple Leaf comes fully equipped with BBQ, gas cooker, cutlery, crockery, glassware, saucepans, frying pans and other kitchen utensils. Sheets, pillows, 2 towels, duvets and toilet tissue are also provided. There are no laundry facilities on board so bring ample clothing.

How many people can I have on the boat?

The maximum number of people allowed to sleep on board Maple Leaf is 6.

What if I need assistance out on the water?

Mostly we communicate from the owner to the customers by text. Although you are unlikely to require assistance, The Maple Leaf is fitted with a VHF marine radio, so you can contact Whangaroa Coast Guard on Channel 64. It is also advisable to take your mobile phone as an additional means of contact. The main way we keep in contact is by texting.

What if I damage the boat?

The Maple Leaf is insured providing you have met our conditions of charter and follow our instructions. Wilful or negligent damage is not covered, and you are responsible for damage caused by you or members of your group to other people’s property.

Is there electricity on the boat?

The Maple Leaf is fitted with 12 volt D.C. supply from a solar panel which supplies lighting. There are multiple USB charging ports on board.

What about the bathroom?

The houseboat is fitted with a hot shower and hand basin, heated by gas califont, and an eco-friendly Lectrasan marine toilet. Instructions are given on the simple management of this system.

Is there any music on board?

The Maple Leaf is equipped with an AM/FM radio. The radio has bluetooth and AUX capabilities.

Is there cell phone coverage?

It is patchy. In the centre of the harbour it’s ok but in the bays with the big cliffs coverage may be limited. Phones may not work everywhere, but will work somewhere. Texting is the most reliable form of communication on the harbour.

What if we arrive (or leave) in 2 groups?

The houseboat is available from 10am. If you cannot make this time please advise us of your expected arrival time. Sometimes the charter party may arrive or leave in groups at different times. We can accommodate this (as long as it’s not at night). We will arrange to meet the second group at the wharf at the specified time then take them to the houseboat in our Harbour Taxi. There is a charge of $50 for this transfer. We cannot put people on the boat after dark as Maple Leaf cannot be driven at night and must be secure on anchor or a mooring one hour before darkness. (Maritime NZ terms). Find out more about our water taxi service.

Are there any restaurants we can visit on the Whangaroa Harbour?

Not currently. The town of Whangaroa offers the Whangaroa Big Gamefish Club and meals may be available there in evenings over the summer months. It is a good idea to contact to check opening hours. For access to shore you will have to anchor the houseboat and use the inflatable tender available with the Maple Leaf.

What if we need supplies such as food, drink or fish bait?

The nearest convenience store is in Kaeo, a 10-minute car drive from the harbour. Bring everything you need with you. For additional charge we may be able to deliver goods to you if you run out of supplies.

How far can I take the boat?

The Maple Leaf is surveyed as a bare boat charter, within the limits of Whangaroa Harbour. There are spots which are shallow which are marked on the map that should be avoided. You will be given instructions on navigation in our safety briefing of the boat.

Can I travel at night?

No. The Maple Leaf is only permitted to travel in daylight hours and must not move between dusk and dawn.

Do I need a fishing licence?

In New Zealand you do not need a license for saltwater fishing. Fishing regulations apply for the sizes and numbers of fish caught. These regulations are outlined on board the Maple Leaf.

Fishing Equipment

“The Maple Leaf is not a fishing charter boat”
Happy for customers fishing on the Maple Leaf, please keep fishing equipment to a minimum

What about water and fuel?

Water tanks on board hold 400 litres of fresh water and will last for 3-5 days. You can fill up at the water buoy in the eastern arm. This is operated by the Whangaroa Coast Guard. In addition, the Maple Leaf will have fuel and spare tanks on board. Fuel is included in your charter price.

What about keeping food cool?

The houseboat is fitted with a gas 12V fridge and freezer. Ice or salt ice can be purchased at the Marlin Hotel Whangaroa Harbour or at the Kaeo 4 square.

What do I do with my rubbish?