THE NEW ZEALAND MARINA Operators Association (NZMOA) has recognised its very best marinas and boatyards for 2019. The awards were established to recognise and celebrate excellent practice in the marinas industry.

Bay of Islands Marina has been named the NZMOA Marina of the Year. The judges were impressed with its vision, forward thinking, design initiatives and its focus on local and regional development.

Te Ana Marina in Lyttleton, which opened in May 2018, was highlighted for reviving recreational boating in Canterbury, for its environmentally-focused designs developed in conjunction with iwi, and for ceating a new destination for boaties and visitors.

A small privately-owned boatyard, Bridge Marina Travelift Ltd, received the accolade for Boatyard of the Year for its ability to maximise use of space and to think outside the square, particularly in relation to an impressive water filtration system it has developed. The boatyards at Gulf Harbour Marina and Marsden Point Marina received special mention for commitment to high standards across the board.

Two operations in Tauranga received accolades in the Best Environmental Performance category.

The 500-berth Tauranga Bridge Marina Ltd won the overall award for proactively developing and implementing environmental initiatives.

The new Tauranga Marine Precinct, VesselWorks, was also highly praised for its commitment to research and investment.

The 2018 Outstanding Individual Contribution Award was presented to Brent and June Shipman of Total Marine.