Marlborough Sounds Marinas: The first New Zealand Clean Marinas
by Marina Industries Association 6 Aug 2024 00:00 PDT
Waikawa Marina © Marina Industries Association
Marlborough Sounds Marinas — comprising Picton, Waikawa, and Havelock marinas — are the first New Zealand marinas to be awarded the International Clean Marina accreditation. Following a rigorous independent environmental audit, all three sites achieved a perfect score of 100%.
Anouk Euzeby, the Manager of Marlborough Sounds Marinas, reviewed the environmental accreditation options available for the marinas and decided on the MIA's Clean Marina due to its rigour, reputation, and highly trained environmental assessors who undertake the on-site audit.
Speaking on the process Euzeby commented: "Gaining the certification is a very proud moment for our entire marinas team, who have worked diligently on improving our systems for environmental protection and excellence in marina management. Preparation for the certification audit included meticulously reviewing procedures and training manuals, updating our website with the latest environmental and operational information, renewing informational and instructional signage, reconfiguring waste sites, and constructing a new recycling centre at Picton Marina. The preparatory work required staff training on new procedures, and every team member dedicated significant thought and effort despite a busy season. Having a highly trained, dedicated environmental consultant adds enormous value as they can add guidance where required, giving us great confidence."
Environmental Consultant Mackenzie Stacey from BMT, who conducted the audits, praised the marinas for their thorough environmental management practices. "The level of detail in their procedures is impressive. Marlborough Sounds Marinas sets a high standard for others to follow, making them a valuable addition to the Clean Marinas program. Under the guidance of Marina Systems and Innovation Manager Sabine Seabrook, Marlborough Sounds Marinas streamlined the auditing process by providing clear and concise documentation. The team's commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the Marlborough Sounds through sustainable practices, waste minimisation, and pollution prevention was evident throughout their operations."
Marlborough Sounds Marinas operates three marinas at the top of New Zealand's South Island—Havelock, Picton, and Waikawa—with a total capacity of over 2,000 vessels in wet and dry storage. These marinas facilitate boating in the picturesque Marlborough Sounds, encompassing over 20% of New Zealand's coastline. The region is also home to the country's largest wine-producing area, with numerous award-winning vineyards and cellar doors nearby.
Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn highlighted the significance of this achievement. "Port Marlborough is committed to leading as an environmentally restorative port. This milestone by our marinas team exemplifies our dedication to environmental excellence in the marine industry. We are extremely proud and will use this new standard as a benchmark for continuous improvement."
The Clean Marina program helps marinas evaluate and improve their environmental processes, ensure compliance, and maintain current documentation. It also educates consumers about the marina's commitment to responsible practices and offers operators standards and benchmarks for maintenance.
"With over 60 marinas participating in Australia and the Pacific region, we are thrilled to see Marlborough Sounds Marinas recognized as Clean Marinas. Perfect scores of 100% across all sites are unprecedented and an incredible achievement. The team has every right to be proud of this accomplishment, resulting from excellent marina management and teamwork. We encourage all marinas to join the program and promote environmental responsibility across our waterways," said Suzanne Davies, CEO of the Marina Industries Association (MIA).
For further info, contact Chris Stone, Operations Manager at