The marina extension to the northwest of the existing marina will provide an additional 252 berths ranging in size from 10–25m, some of which will cater for multihull vessels. Both Waikawa and Picton Marinas having operated at capacity for several years, and the growing waiting lists at both underscore the Port’s decision to extend.

Says Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn: “We are hugely excited to head into the next stage of this project, following 10 years of careful planning and considerable consultation with community partners and stakeholders. Te Ātiawa, the Marlborough Berth and Mooring Association, neighbours, community groups, customers and other stakeholders have had a lot of input.

“The North-West Extension will not only fulfil recreational demand in our marinas, but also has a wider economic benefit for the Marlborough region, pre- and post-construction. The economic impact of the marina expansion is estimated to bring an annual additional expenditure of $2.4m to the region.”

Sustainability has been a key consideration in the design.

The marina extension site is in deeper water than existing berths at Waikawa, requiring pile and panel breakwater. The breakwater panels provide space above the seabed for continual water exchange within the marina basin, improving underwater ecology while at the same time protecting vessels in the marina from wave action.

Testing of the engineering design concept has been thorough and has included physical modelling of options at the Queensland Government Hydraulics Laboratory. Other specific considerations include future sea-level rise, coastal processes, water quality and marine ecology including a kaimoana management plan; and effects on landscape, visual amenity and natural character.

Detailed design of the marina will reflect the style of the newer areas of Picton Marina (near the launching ramp) and will include a public amenity area at the northern end, where aesthetic design has been assisted by Te Ātiawa.

Ongoing operation of the marina will incorporate low energy LED lighting, use of recycled water for flushing toilets, a rubbish recycling compound and provision of charging facilities for electric cars and boats. The finished marina will ensure ongoing public access to the northern shoreline and there will be a walkway along the northern breakwater.

The first few berths are expected to be available early 2021, ahead of the America’s Cup. New berth holders can register their interest now by contacting

service@msmarinas.co.nz