Westport Harbour is located on the West Coast of the South Island and provides pilotage, towage, berthage and full marine services.
Westport bar sounding
16 June 2025
Latest bar sounding as of 16 June 2025.
Mariners are reminded that the ideal time to cross the bar is a high-water Westport, crossing at other times could be hazardous.
Please note the depths are displayed at chart datum so please add current height of tide to determine corrected depth.
All ships call to be made on VHF channel 14 before entry and exit.
Safety
Buller District Council, as manager of the Port of Westport, is committed to continually improving the health and safety practices at the port.
Crossing the Westport bar
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The most important requirement for crossing the bar and entering Westport Harbour is to obtain qualified advice first, from either the harbour master or the port information line.
The bar can extend up to half a nautical mile off the entrance. Mariners are advised to keep at least one mile off the entrance until making their approach to cross the bar.
Facilities
Westport Harbour has a range of facilities to make your stay on land as enjoyable as possible and provide the services you, your crew and your boat need.
Risks and hazards when fishing near commercial trawlers
It is important to know the key risks and hazards when fishing near commercial fishing trawlers and how to keep yourself, your passengers and vessels safe.
This guidance is for recreational tuna fishers on the West Coast of New Zealand, in areas where larger commercial vessels, specifically trawlers, may be fishing for Hoki or other species.
We all want everyone to get home safe to enjoy their catch with family and friends.
