From a major superyacht facility to a destination marina in the Coromandel, the finalists represent a diverse range of operations.
NZMOA Chair Chris Galbraith said the quality of this year’s entries reflected the depth of expertise and commitment within the industry.
“The finalists demonstrate the many ways marina and boatyard businesses contribute to New Zealand’s marine sector. They are investing in their facilities, strengthening environmental and safety practices, supporting their customers and finding practical solutions to industry challenges.
“The awards provide an opportunity to recognise this work and share examples of excellence across the wider industry.”
Entries were assessed by an independent judging panel, with finalists evaluated against criteria including business performance, customer service, environmental management, health and safety, staff development, facility improvement and wider industry contribution. The Outstanding Initiative category also recognises projects that respond to a need or opportunity.
| MARINA OF THE YEAR FINALISTS | |
|---|---|
| Silo Marina | A specialist eight-berth facility serving superyachts of up to 145m in central Auckland with a unique role to play in the city’s economy. |
| Gulf Harbour Marina | One of the region’s largest established marina communities. |
| Marsden Cove Marina | Provides an important marine hub at the entrance to Whangārei Harbour. |
| Whitianga Marina | Has continued to strengthen its facilities, environmental practices and service to cruising boaties and Coromandel locals. |
| BOATYARD OF THE YEAR FINALISTS | |
| Whitianga Marina | Its busy operation completes around 600 lifts each year and provides a valuable service to its region. |
| Marsden Cove Marina | An overall excellent facility that has made significant progress in its health and safety systems and the management of boatyard waste. |
| Gulf Harbour Marina | Has invested significantly in its equipment, systems and environmental work. |
| Titan Marine Engineering | Combines strong health and safety practices with apprentice development and ISO 14001 environmental certification. |
| OUTSTANDING INITIATIVE FINALISTS | |
| Commercial Dive Specialists’ Rehabitat | A containment chamber that neutralises exotic caulerpa. |
| Westhaven Marina’s Cadet Program | A structured pathway into a marina career. |
| Seaview Marina’s Staff App | A deceptively simple way to improve marina operations. |
The winners were announced at the 2026 New Zealand Marina and Boatyard Conference in Tauranga on Thursday 24 September.
