The Evocean Sustainability Award at the 2025 Yachting New Zealand Excellence Awards was presented to the Kohimarama Yacht Club for their groundbreaking initiative, The Marama Project. This ambitious effort transformed the club’s ageing 23-foot committee boat, a vessel central to junior and youth sailing since 1978, into New Zealand’s first fully electric club committee boat. The project set a new benchmark for environmental responsibility within the sailing community.
Over nearly two years, KYC volunteers, youth sailors and local marine specialists collaborated to restore and repower the historic vessel. The original diesel engine, which had served for almost five decades and countless regattas, was removed and replaced with a modern 10kW electric motor. To achieve true off-grid capability, the team integrated solar panels capable of powering the motor independently, eliminating the need for fossil fuels and significantly reducing operating costs and emissions.
The result is a silent, efficient, and environmentally friendly vessel that supports race management without disturbing the marine environment. The absence of engine noise has been particularly appreciated by race officials and sailors alike. The conversion also demonstrated strong industry collaboration, with support from partners including Ecotricity NZ and Southern Spars, who provided technical expertise and materials.
Beyond its technical success, The Marama Project has become a powerful educational tool. It shows how traditional diesel-powered support boats can be modernised sustainably, offering a practical model for yacht clubs nationwide seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. By combining community effort, innovative thinking and industry partnership, KYC created a project that resonates far beyond their local harbour.
The Evocean Sustainability Award recognises initiatives that lead the way in environmental stewardship and sustainable practice within the sport. KYC’s achievement reflects a forward-looking approach to club operations and highlights the role grassroots sailing organisations can play in supporting a cleaner marine environment. The Marama Project now stands as a flagship example of what is possible when a community embraces sustainable innovation and works collectively toward a cleaner future for New Zealand sailing.
