Milestone for Marlborough marinas makes history
Waikawa Marina is one of the three in Marlborough to be making waves in environmental excellence. Photo: Supplied.
Marlborough marinas are making history, becoming the first in New Zealand to be international recognised for environmental excellence.
Picton, Waikawa, and Havelock marinas have been individually assessed and accredited as International Clean Marinas.
This achievement is a milestone first for New Zealand, as Marlborough Sounds Marinas is the first marina operation in the country to receive this accreditation.
It comes after a rigorous certification process focusing on environmental operating procedures, results, emergency procedures, asset maintenance, and customer awareness and education.
Paying tribute to all staff, Manager of Marlborough Sounds Marinas Anouk Euzeby says everyone worked hard to make it happen.
"Gaining the certification is a really proud moment for our entire marinas team, who have worked diligently on improving our systems for environmental protection and excellence in marina management.
“The preparatory work required staff training on new procedures, and every team member dedicated significant thought and effort despite a busy season. "
The International Clean Marina Program is a global accreditation system designed for marinas, yacht clubs, boat clubs, slipways, boatyards, and associated industry operators.
Geared towards boosting environmental practices in marina operations, the initiative aims to reduce pollution associated with boating and marina facilities, promotes clean water, clean air, and successful marina businesses.
Marlborough Sounds Marinas is New Zealand’s largest marina operator,
Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn says the company has a vision to lead the way as an environmentally restorative port.
“.. and this achievement by our marinas team speaks directly to that commitment, as well as the team’s efforts to lead by example for environmental excellence in the marina industry.
"We are extremely proud of our team for achieving this and will be holding this new standard as a benchmark for continuous improvement in our marina operations."
Preparation for the certification audit included meticulously reviewing procedures and training manuals, updating the website with the latest environmental and operational information, renewing informational and instructional signage, reconfiguring waste sites, and the construction of a new recycling centre at Picton Marina.