Protector and New Zealand electric propulsion company, Naut, have partnered to develop the first fully electric Protector vessel, combining Protector’s internationally recognised hull design with Naut’s high-performance electric propulsion technology. The ‘ProtectorE 310 Chase’ (currently in production) will be every inch a Protector – featuring an advanced, ultra-capable hull, a smooth ride in all conditions, and tough but luxurious finishing. The only difference is the propulsion system (and the ‘ProtectorE powered by Naut’ branding). Naut’s Kaha, 100% electric outboard, provides zero emission, clean-green power. The company believe it may be the most powerful commercially available electric production outboard. Even at… Read More

Credit: Holly Dukeson, Pacific Powerboat Magazine In an industry often dominated by bold marketing and rapid model cycles, some marine brands take a different path, one built on consistency, craftsmanship, and trust earned over decades. As Superior Boats marks 40 years in New Zealand boatbuilding, the milestone tells a story of steady evolution, technical depth, and an unwavering focus on building boats for real Kiwi boating conditions. From repair-shop beginnings to respected production-launch builder, the Superior story is as much about people and passion as it is about fibreglass, hull design, and time on the water. The origins of Superior… Read More

Helping More Women Get Confident on the Water As an industry, we spend a lot of time talking about boats, engines, electronics and safety equipment. But one of the biggest opportunities to improve boating safety starts with something much simpler—confidence. That’s where Wild Chix is making a real difference. Founded by Isabell, Wild Chix is a New Zealand organisation dedicated to empowering women in the outdoors through practical, hands-on education. Their boating programmes are designed to help women gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to become active, capable crew members and confident skippers. Many women spend years on boats but have never… Read More

Tohatsu Corporation, a global leader in innovative marine outboard engines, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a new distributorship agreement with Power Equipment Pty Ltd, appointing the company as the exclusive distributor for Australia, New Zealand, and the wider Oceania region beginning, effective 1 July 2026. Mr. Isami Hyuga, President of Tohatsu Corporation, commented on the new partnership: “Power Equipment has demonstrated strong capability and unwavering commitment within the marine industry. We are confident that, together with such a trusted partner, this agreement will play a pivotal role in driving our long-term growth across the Oceania market.… Read More

The marina and boatyard industry has a huge amount of potential for talented people seeking a strong career, and the New Zealand Marina Operators Association (NZMOA) is helping ensure that the opportunities are visible and accessible to all. This comes as MAST Academy, which runs training programs for the industry locally including New Zealand Certificate in Boatyard Operations and Marina Operations courses,  is leading a review of qualifications for the industry to ensure they are relevant and current. “There is so much opportunity in the industry,” says NZMOA Chair Chris Galbraith. “Whether you want to work outside by the water,… Read More

Former NZ Marine Executive Director Peter Busfield inducted to Hall of Fame.The milestone 70th edition of The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show wrapped up on Sunday 18 May after four successful days, proving New Zealand’s love affair with boating and fishing is still running full throttle. A major highlight of the show exhibitor function held Friday 15 May was the announcement of the 2026 Hall of Fame inductee, with former New Zealand Marine Industry Association Executive Director Peter Busfield recognised for more than three decades of outstanding service to the New Zealand marine industry. Peter Busfield’s contribution to New Zealand’s marine industry over 30+ years, was… Read More

Rayglass Boats, a Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) brand and a globally recognized designer and manufacturer of premium power boats, today debuted the all-new Legend 2400 at the 2026 Rayglass Boat Show. The 2400 is the third and final release in the next-generation Legend range, joining the Legend 3000 (2024) and Legend 2700 (2025) to complete a fully modernized trilogy built on more than a decade of owner feedback. An evolution of the iconic Legend 2350, one of Rayglass’ most popular vessels for the past 13-plus years, the 2400 is engineered to launch anywhere and go everywhere. Easy to tow and… Read More

Wellington startup NZ Boat Register partners with One NZ to launch AquaGPS, the country’s first GPS tracking device to use One NZ Satellite powered by Starlink, giving people who love to get in and on the water location awareness from the driveway to up to 85 nautical miles offshore. WELLINGTON, NZ – A new GPS tracking device that seamlessly switches between cellular and satellite connectivity is now available to New Zealand’s recreational boat owners, making it the first device of its kind in the country. AquaGPS, launched by Wellington-based NZ Boat Register and powered by One NZ’s traditional cell tower… Read More

Auckland’s iconic waterfront is set to be transformed into a global sailing festival in February and March 2027, as The Ocean Race revealed exciting partnerships and key details of the Southern Ocean stopover, marking the return of the City of Sails to the race route for the first time since 2018.At a media launch held in the city’s Viaduct Harbour on Monday afternoon, organisers celebrated Auckland’s long-standing relationship with the world’s most prestigious and demanding fully-crewed, around-the-world sailing event with the unveiling of a special 50th anniversary logo, commemorating half a century since the city first hosted the race.The fleet… Read More

The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, which returns to Auckland Showgrounds from 14–17 May, marks a milestone, as the country’s longest‑running boat show celebrates 70 years.  Since its earliest days, the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show has evolved alongside the country’s boating and fishing culture. In 2026, that legacy is front and centre, with special activations and a programme designed to honour the past while showcasing the very latest in marine innovation. With more than 40 new companies on board, emerging technology and fresh industry releases, the show has cemented itself as New Zealand’s largest marketplace for boating and fishing.  Alongside the anniversary celebrations, visitors can expect a host… Read More