Harbouring growth

The first industry-wide survey on the marina and boatyard sector in New Zealand has quantified its economic significance.

Conducted in 2023 by a specialist department at Michigan State University for the New Zealand Marina Operators Association (NZMOA), the survey found that the industry generates $153m in gross annual revenue and supports over 470 jobs. The total economic contribution is estimated to exceed half a billion dollars.

The survey, titled the Health of the New Zealand Marina Industry Survey, involved 40 marinas and highlighted the sector’s role beyond its immediate operations.

“Marinas and boatyards are hubs of employment and industry,” says Chris Galbraith, NZMOA chair and general manager of Bay of Islands Marina. “Boat owners need a wide range of maintenance services, and in some cases, we attract large amounts of international boats that come to New Zealand for pleasure, maintenance and refit – also making it part of our export economy.”