Marine dealership Farnley’s Yamaha has changed hands, with new owners Jack Ewen and Mason Orchard taking over from founders James and Chris after 16 years in business.
The announcement was made on Facebook last night.
“A new chapter for Farnley’s 🤝
Sixteen years ago, at just 19 years old, James became business partners with Chris, beginning what has been an incredible journey together with Farnley’s.
Over those 16 years, Farnley’s has become one of New Zealand’s leading marine dealerships, supported by an amazing team, loyal customers and longstanding relationships with Yamaha and our wider network of suppliers. There have been plenty of challenges, a lot of hard work and some great successes along the way, and it’s a business James and Chris are incredibly proud of.
Today, we’re excited to share the next step in that journey, with Jack Ewen and Mason Orchard taking ownership of Farnley’s.
After 16 years together, the decision to sell wasn’t made lightly, but the timing is right for James and Chris to each focus on their respective businesses and the opportunities ahead. Chris will continue his involvement in the marine industry through Farnley’s Watercraft in Christchurch and his booming mini jet boat business, while James will turn his full attention to Extreme Boats.
For James, that focus reflects the scale of Extreme and the opportunities ahead for the brand. Already one of New Zealand’s largest and most established boat manufacturers, Extreme has built thousands of boats for customers around the world, backed by an established international dealer network, with Hull 4000 now on the production line.
With major new model development underway and significant opportunities ahead globally, Extreme now requires James’ full focus as he leads the business into its next stage.
It also means the time is right for a new generation to take Farnley’s forward.
Jack and Mason are taking over a strong, established marine dealership with an experienced team behind them and a great foundation to build from. After everything that has gone into Farnley’s over the past 16 years, James and Chris are looking forward to watching them put their own stamp on the business, build on what’s already been achieved and take Farnley’s to the next level.
To our team, our customers, Yamaha, our suppliers and everyone who has supported Farnley’s over the past 16 years, thank you. You’ve all played a part in making Farnley’s what it is today.
It’s the end of a pretty special 16 year chapter for James and Chris, but the beginning of an exciting new one for Farnley’s.
We’re looking forward to watching Jack and Mason take it from here. 🤝”
