NEW ZEALAND: Marlborough Sounds clinches first Clean Marina certificates

Marlborough Sounds Marinas – Picton, Waikawa and Havelock marinas – have become the first in New Zealand to be awarded International Clean Marina accreditation. Following a rigorous independent environmental audit, all three sites achieved a perfect score of 100%.

Anouk Euzeby, manager of Marlborough Sounds Marinas, reviewed the environmental accreditation options available for the marinas and decided on the MIA’s Clean Marina due to its rigour, reputation and highly trained environmental assessors who undertake the on-site audit.
Speaking on the process, Euzeby commented: “Gaining the certification is a very proud moment for our entire marinas team who have worked diligently on improving our systems for environmental protection and excellence in marina management. Preparation for the certification audit included meticulously reviewing procedures and training manuals, updating our website with the latest environmental and operational information, renewing informational and instructional signage, reconfiguring waste sites and constructing a new recycling centre at Picton Marina.”
“The preparatory work required staff training on new procedures, and every team member dedicated significant thought and effort despite a busy season. Having a highly trained, dedicated environmental consultant adds enormous value as they can add guidance where required, giving us great confidence.”
The three Marlborough Sounds Marinas have total capacity for over 2,000 vessels and facilitate boating in the picturesque Marlborough Sounds, encompassing over 20% of New Zealand’s coastline.
Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourne highlighted the significance of the achievement: “Port Marlborough is committed to leading as an environmentally restorative port. This milestone by our marinas team exemplifies our dedication to environmental excellence in the marine industry. We are extremely proud and will use this new standard as a benchmark for continuous improvement.”