Andrew Flanagan started Powerboat Training NZ in 2010 to provide practical hands-on training to Kiwi boaties who want to be safe on the water – and want boating education lessons on a boat, not in the classroom.  

Andrew’s training vessel, a 6m Atomix with a Mercury 115hp four-stroke outboard, has been a reliable workhorse for over 10 years. As Andrew comments, “I have one of the toughest paper runs in town. Students unerringly find the gaps between every marina fender and the orange wrap is showing the scars. They tend to shift gears too quickly and graunch the gearbox. The current gearbox is number three!”

A recent survey inspection identified some remedial work was necessary. Enter Dave Lourie, MD of Gloss Boats. Having been contracted by Andrew to carry out the work, got him thinking about what Andrew was doing to lift the skill level and safety of boat owners. He recognised the importance of Andrew’s ability to provide invaluable practical boating education far beyond what a theoretical course could offer.

He devised a plan, roping in the support of numerous marine businesses, to give the vessel a far more extensive refit than Andrew was expecting. The Tamaki Marine Park-based paint shop began by removing the battered and bruised vinyl wrap and entirely respraying the boat and motor in Awlgrip Awlcraft SE base and clear coat, kindly donated by Akzo Nobel.

Other neighbouring trades also generously became involved, providing services at no cost. Adam Wickes from Ultralon provided a new U-Dek floor. Condon Marine Services dealt with any boat building jobs and HMB Electrical did likewise for the lighting and electrical. The team at Marine Detailing brought the white gelcoat and brightwork back to life.

When Andrew saw the finished project for the first time, he was surprised and delighted – and a little emotional. “I was blown away, to be honest. I want to express my appreciation to all the suppliers involved for their help in raising the message of the importance of boating safety awareness. This has re-energised me. I feel valued and now I can be proud of the appearance of my training vessel.”

You can find Andrew on Instagram and Facebook and see how he’s improving boating safety @powerboat.training