A wrap on Conference 26
More than 130 delegates, 40 speakers and six host venues made the 2026 NZ Marina and Boatyard Conference three days of learning, discussion and connection for New Zealand's marina and boatyard industry.
Held in Tauranga, the conference brought together marina and boatyard operators, industry suppliers, developers, consultants and other marine professionals from across New Zealand and overseas.
The programme covered a broad range of topics, from the economic outlook, marina development and changing customer expectations to environmental management, new technology, health and safety, workforce development and the regulatory environment.
And just as importantly, the conference was an opportunity for people working across the industry to catch up, share experiences, compare approaches and learn from one another.
Looking ahead for the industry
The conference explored some of the significant changes and challenges facing marina and boatyard operators.
Independent economist Tony Alexander provided an economic perspective, while international speakers shared insights into marina investment, development and emerging trends overseas.
Legal and regulatory matters were also prominent, including an update on resource management reform and consenting from Sally Gepp KC, and practical discussions about the management of unwanted and abandoned vessels.
The future of marina customers was another important topic, with a panel exploring changing demographics, boating habits and the opportunities for marinas to respond to the needs of the next generation of boat owners.
Operational presentations provided valuable opportunities to learn from the experiences of other facilities, including Westhaven Marina's berth licence reversion programme, Nelson Marina's development plans and approaches to managing critical health and safety risks.
Sharing innovation and real-world solutions
Innovation came to the fore through presentations on autonomous and remotely operated vessels, new marina construction materials, security technology and environmental solutions. Marine biosecurity and the management of invasive marine pests were also discussed, including research into the practical challenges of cleaning marina infrastructure. Workforce development and the industry's future training needs were explored, with updates on marina and boatyard qualifications and professional development opportunities.
Site visits: the best of Tauranga
Site visits were another highlight of the three-day event, giving delegates the opportunity to see local marine infrastructure and development projects firsthand.
Visits included Tauranga Bridge Marina, the Tauranga Marina redevelopment, VesselWorks and a sail by the Port of Tauranga.
Delegate feedback
Feedback from delegates was overwhelmingly positive, with particular appreciation for the breadth of the programme, the quality of speakers and the opportunity to connect with colleagues from across the industry.
Presentations on the economic outlook, marina development, legal and consenting matters, and emerging technologies were among those highlighted by attendees. The discussion about future boating customers also generated interest, while the opportunity to visit local marine facilities and hear directly from operators was valued.
Networking remained one of the most important benefits of attending, with delegates enjoying the chance to exchange ideas, build relationships and learn from the experiences of others.
A celebration of achievement
The NZMOA Awards Dinner brought delegates together to recognise outstanding achievement across the marina and boatyard industry. Certificates were presented to Level 3 Certified Clean Marinas and NZMOA Awards winners were announced.
The evening also celebrated professional development, with Tim Lidgard CMM (Seaview Marina) and Tim Griffiths CMP (Marine Structures) receiving their Certified Member qualifications and pins.
NZMOA extends its thanks to the speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, host venues and everyone who contributed to another great event
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