A Passion for Quality: The Story of The Chandlery
Founded in Russell, The Chandlery is much more than just a local shop. It’s the culmination of Warren’s lifelong passion for boating and his commitment to providing top-tier gear that boaters can rely on in even the most challenging conditions.
“My vision for The Chandlery is simple,” says Warren. “I want to offer equipment and gear that I would use myself. I’ve spent a lot of time in rough conditions—whether it’s Southern Australia, the Bass Strait, or the Tasman Sea—and I know the importance of reliable gear. When your equipment fails, it makes life harder or, in some cases, it can cost lives. That’s why we align ourselves only with brands I personally trust, like Henri-Lloyd.”
The Chandlery started as a byproduct of Swell Marine, Warren’s electrical installation and service business. Realising the need for a quality chandlery in Russell—a popular destination for boaters—Warren transformed his space into a fully stocked shop offering the best marine products. With a focus on personal experience and practical solutions, The Chandlery has quickly become a trusted source for gear in the Bay of Islands boating community.
Find out more about The Chandlery on their website here at https://thechandlery.co.nz/ You will also find them at the handy location of 15 Aucks Road, Russell 0272, New Zealand
The Return of Henri-Lloyd to New Zealand
Henri-Lloyd’s reintroduction to New Zealand is exciting news for sailors who value performance, durability, and style. Known for their cutting-edge technology, such as Gore-Tex waterproofing and the first-ever non-corrosive nylon zippers, Henri-Lloyd has consistently pushed the boundaries of marine wear. After a brief absence from the New Zealand market, The Chandlery is now proudly stocking the brand, with the first shipment of clothing arriving in mid-September.
“Henri-Lloyd is a brand that I’ve trusted for years,” Warren explains. “I’ve owned more expensive gear, but nothing has lasted as long or kept me as comfortable as Henri-Lloyd. Whether I’m battling strong winds or enjoying a calm day on the water, their gear is my go-to.”
The Chandlery will officially relaunch Henri-Lloyd at a product feedback event during Labour Weekend, giving the New Zealand sailing community a chance to experience the new range firsthand. Warren is confident that once New Zealand sailors try the gear, they’ll appreciate its exceptional quality, just as he has.
Why Henri-Lloyd is Perfect for New Zealand Waters
New Zealand’s unpredictable weather and diverse marine conditions demand clothing that can handle everything from sunny, breezy days to cold, stormy nights. Henri-Lloyd’s clothing is designed with these extremes in mind. Their lightweight, waterproof breeze jackets are perfect for mild conditions, while the heavier-duty gear can keep sailors dry and warm even in the worst storms.
“The thing about New Zealand is that the weather can change quickly,” says Warren. “You need gear that keeps you comfortable in both extremes, and Henri-Lloyd does just that. I’ve worn their gear in some tough conditions, and it’s never let me down.”
One of the standout features of Henri-Lloyd gear is its breathability. The brand’s innovative layering system allows sailors to adjust their clothing depending on the conditions. Whether it’s the Aktiv Light base layer for warmer weather or the Smart Therm Jacket for colder days, Henri-Lloyd offers a range of options that can be easily layered for maximum comfort.
In Australia, the M-Pro range for men and women has already gained popularity, and The Chandlery is confident it will find a similar reception in New Zealand. These versatile pieces are stylish enough for a day out at a yacht club and durable enough for rough days at sea.
Building a Strong Connection with the Local Community
Warren and the team at The Chandlery aren’t just focused on selling great gear—they’re committed to fostering a strong relationship with the local boating community. The upcoming launch of Henri-Lloyd in New Zealand will be marked by a series of pop-up events at local boat clubs and sailing competitions, giving sailors the chance to try on the gear and provide feedback.
“We’re really excited to get the community involved,” says Warren. “We’ve had a lot of interest already from people looking for Christmas gift ideas, and the feedback we’ve received from local boat clubs has been overwhelmingly positive. People are excited to see Henri-Lloyd back on New Zealand shelves.”
Henri-Lloyd: A Legacy of Innovation
Henri-Lloyd’s reputation as a trusted brand is built on decades of innovation and dedication to quality. Since its founding in 1963, the company has been a pioneer in marine wear, introducing ground-breaking technologies like Gore-Tex, which has become a staple in waterproof clothing worldwide.
The brand’s commitment to innovation hasn’t stopped. Henri-Lloyd continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, with each piece of clothing designed to withstand thousands of hours at sea. This dedication to performance, combined with a focus on style, has made Henri-Lloyd a favourite among professional sailors and casual boaters alike.
“Henri-Lloyd is known for quality and longevity,” says Warren. “Their gear doesn’t just look good—it performs at the highest level. I’m proud to offer it at The Chandlery and share it with the local community.”
Conclusion
With The Chandlery bringing Henri-Lloyd back to New Zealand, sailors once again have access to the world-class gear they need for the country’s unpredictable waters. As the official relaunch approaches, Warren and his team are eager to share the brand’s innovative and stylish products with the local boating community. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or just getting started, Henri-Lloyd offers something for everyone, and The Chandlery is the place to find it.
