NZ Boat Builders unite following Christchurch quake

by Ian Cook, President NZ Marine Industry Assoc on 6 Mar 2011 The New Zealand marine industry is deeply grateful for the generosity, sympathy and support they have received from around the world since the Christchurch earthquake of 22 February 2011, and stand united in their efforts to support their colleagues and friends in the region.

The earthquake was confined to Christchurch and Lyttelton, and many businesses there are already back up and running. New Zealand remains open for business and tourism, and appreciates the support of our international and domestic partners in their continued support with ongoing trading relationships.

At an industry level, the tight-knit New Zealand marine industry is providing practical support to its Christchurch members, following this tragic event.

Christchurch’s boatbuilding industry comprises trailerable powerboats and trailer yachts, and powerboats and yachts up to 15 metres, including new builds and refits. Most marine industry members in Christchurch suffered extensive or total loss to their homes and, in some cases, their factories. There are no superyacht builders in the South Island.

Eighty per cent of New Zealand’s marine industry is based in Auckland and the North Island, which was not directly affected by the quake, however it will serve as a major source of support to its colleagues in Christchurch.

Peter Busfield, executive director of NZ Marine Industry, has been charged with setting up a committee dedicated to providing practical support. This will include coordination of marine companies around New Zealand sharing building facilities with Christchurch builders and offering positions to apprentices who have lost their jobs in Christchurch.

If you wish to support the people of Christchurch with practical assistance New Zealand's Prime Minister John Key has launched the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal, a global fundraiser for the recovery effort in the city and the Canterbury region.

In the rest of New Zealand, life and business continue as usual. We are working together to rebuild Christchurch and showcase New Zealand during the Rugby World Cup later in 2011. The biggest sporting event of the year, will kick off as planned in Auckland on September 9 and all matches will be played in New Zealand.

The New Zealand marine industry will have significant showcasing events throughout the Rugby World Cup with the Auckland International Boat Show September 15-18th. We look forward to seeing you in New Zealand for what will be a great event on and off the field.