Bob Tait – one of the longest-serving members in NZ’s marine industry – has passed on after a long illness.

Bob was a life member of NZ Marine and was the driving force behind his companies Diversified Products and Tohatsu Outboards.

In 2009 he was honoured as the first person to be awarded a life membership of the Marine Industry Association of New Zealand (now NZ Marine), in recognition of his enormous contribution to the industry.

He served for seven years as its president, a further two as vice-president and also chaired the Boating Industry Training Organisation for many years.

A major influencer and industry leader, Bob helped to forge the marine industry into the success it is today.

He will be missed.