Changes to New Zealand’s marine protection rules took effect on September 21, 2026, removing mandatory carbon-intensity requirements for domestic-voyaging ships of 400 GT and above.
A separate fuel-changeover instrument will take effect on November 11, 2026, introducing requirements for ships covered by its exhaust scrubber provisions.
For New Zealand's domestic fleet, the main benefit is a reduction in energy-efficiency paperwork and compliance work, according to the NZ Marine Transport Association (NZMTA). Maritime NZ has confirmed that vessels operating only domestically no longer have to meet the mandatory carbon-intensity requirements for ship energy efficiency management plans or associated fuel-consumption data collection and reporting.
The effect will depend on the vessel’s size and which requirements previously applied.
The energy-efficiency changes are set out in the September amendments, while the fuel-changeover requirements sit in the separate transport instrument.
The changes do not provide a general exemption from MARPOL Annex VI or Marine Protection Rules Part 199. Applicable fuel-quality and sulphur requirements, engine NOx standards, and Annex VI survey and certification obligations continue.
This includes EIAPP certificates, technical files or other accepted evidence of engine compliance where required. Operators should continue maintaining their applicable Annex VI endorsements and certification.
For a local ferry or coastal work vessel, the practical benefit may therefore be fewer energy-efficiency documents and assessments to maintain, while its normal engine and pollution-compliance work continues.
An overseas voyage needs separate consideration. Maritime NZ specifically noted that a domestic vessel travelling internationally (even for scheduled drydocking) must meet the applicable international requirements.
NZMTA is encouraging operators to check with their surveyor or send the association an email to confirm which requirements can be removed and which remain relevant to their vessels.