2008 will be a year that remains etched in the minds of everyone involved in the global marine industry as a defining time of great change. As we progress through 2009 there are already very positive signs of how New Zealand's marine industry readily adapts to adversity, change and new challenges. Due to the unique qualities that the New Zealand marine industry possesses we have remained robust through this tough period.
New Zealand's marine industry has a long and proud heritage of taking challenges head on and responding with great solutions. The issue we face through this demanding period of change will only serve to stimulate our innovative spirit and demonstrate once again that we deserve our place among the leaders and trailblazers of this global industry.
Our member companies continue to highlight the diversity of products that we offer over such a wide range of applications within the marine industry. We have long been known and recognised for our ability to build high quality custom yachts and this sector is stronger than ever. However that is only the tip of the iceberg. Our marine equipment manufacturers, and companies supplying marine products and services now account for a large percentage of our total exports. Although these sectors are not so immediately apparent very few large yachts would not have at least one item of New Zealand origin onboard.
New Zealand's marine industry has a long and proud heritage of taking challenges head on and responding with great solutions. The issue we face through this demanding period of change will only serve to stimulate our innovative spirit and demonstrate once again that we deserve our place among the leaders and trailblazers of this global industry.
Our member companies continue to highlight the diversity of products that we offer over such a wide range of applications within the marine industry. We have long been known and recognised for our ability to build high quality custom yachts and this sector is stronger than ever. However that is only the tip of the iceberg. Our marine equipment manufacturers, and companies supplying marine products and services now account for a large percentage of our total exports. Although these sectors are not so immediately apparent very few large yachts would not have at least one item of New Zealand origin onboard.
This year the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series provided another fine example of our spirit and innovation which looks set to continue after a highly successful event. The NZ Marine Export Group accordingly complimented this series with our own Millennium Cup Pacific Series regatta. We had little time to prepare but against all the odds created another highly successful regatta to add to the cup's proud heritage. When others were taking cover, we went out there and took on the challenge head on. That is what being a "kiwi" is all about.
We are also becoming increasing popular as a cruising destination as more and more vessels venture to the Pacific region. Our country is unique in offering an excellent and varied combination of land-based adventures and touring opportunities to compliment a vast array of coastal cruising options and un-crowded anchorages. For a little country, we have a lot to offer in every respect and the message is getting out.
We are also becoming increasing popular as a cruising destination as more and more vessels venture to the Pacific region. Our country is unique in offering an excellent and varied combination of land-based adventures and touring opportunities to compliment a vast array of coastal cruising options and un-crowded anchorages. For a little country, we have a lot to offer in every respect and the message is getting out.
Mark Wightman
Chairman , NZ Marine (New Zealand Marine Export Group)
