Westhaven News December 2024

Team update

New team member      

We’re happy to welcome Sam Somerfield to our maintenance team this month.

With a background in security and pest control, Sam brings exceptional attention to detail and a strong commitment to safety in everything he does. In addition to his new role at the marina, where he’ll focus on maintaining efficient and safe operations, Sam pursues his passion as a professional wrestler, competing in rings across the country. We’re thrilled to have Sam’s unique skills and energy on board!

Please feel free to say hi to Sam if you see him around the marina.

Marina cadet programme

Our marina cadet programme continues to be an essential part of our commitment to workforce development and succession planning within the marina team. Currently, Adrian Naicker, who joined us as a marina operations cadet in August 2023, is halfway through the programme. With a background that includes a National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering Technology and experience as a boat painter, Adrian brings valuable skills and a strong passion for the marina industry.

The cadet programme offers cadets broad exposure across marina operations, building the versatile skill set needed for a thriving career in the field. Upon completion, Adrian will receive the New Zealand Certificate in Marina Facilities – Marina Operations, underscoring his readiness to contribute fully to our team.

In preparation for the future, we have started recruiting for an additional cadet, with plans to welcome a new team member early next year. This proactive approach ensures that our marina remains staffed with skilled, knowledgeable professionals equipped to meet the demands of our growing industry.

Christmas opening hours

The marina office at unit 2, 135 Westhaven Drive, will will operate on the following schedule during the Christmas period:

  • Monday to Thursday: 8am to 5pm
  • Fridays: 8am to 4.30pm

Please note: The office will be closed on public holidays, and on Friday 20 December, we will close early at midday.

Our customer service team is ready to assist with any marina-related queries during office hours. You can reach us via email at info@westhaven.co.nz or by phone at 0800 MARINA (0800 627 462).

As always, our dockmasters and security staff will remain on-site 24/7 throughout the Christmas period. For assistance outside office hours, the dockmaster team is available by phone at 0800 MARINA.

Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday season!

Important information about SailGP: On-water exclusion zone, road closures and traffic management – 17-19 January 2025

We kindly ask you to review this important update regarding on-water exclusion zones, road closures, and traffic management in and around Westhaven Marina during the upcoming SailGP event.

With Auckland hosting SailGP for the first time, Westhaven Marina will be a prime viewing location, drawing large crowds, including berth holders and the general public. To ensure safety and smooth operations:

  • The Harbourmaster has established exclusion zones on the Waitematā Harbour that will close the marina to marine traffic entering and exiting Westhaven Marina at certain times
  • A traffic management plan, approved by Auckland Transport, will be implemented, with extra security staff on site.

Read More

Customer satisfaction survey – your feedback addressed

Thank you once again for sharing your thoughts in our 2024 customer satisfaction survey. We track recurring themes and actively address them through updates in our marina newsletters. The insights gathered from these annual surveys are instrumental in guiding service improvements and elevating our operations.

In response to your suggestions, we’ve implemented several changes to enhance your experience. Read More

Trolley use during summer

As we head into the ‘silly season’, the use of trolleys around the marina is likely to increase significantly. With over 160 trolleys available across the marina – an average of one trolley per ten berths – we’re committed to ensuring they remain accessible and in good condition for everyone to use.

Our dockmasters work hard to distribute trolleys evenly across the marina at the end of each day. As part of their duties, they ensure trolleys are clean, in good working order, and available at each trolley bay.

To help ensure smooth operations and a better experience for all:

  • Return trolleys to the gate: After using a trolley, please return it to the nearest trolley bay or gate. This simple act helps keep the marina organised and ensures others can easily find one when needed.
  • Report issues: If you notice a trolley that is damaged or unclean, please let us know so we can address the issue promptly.
  • Keep trolleys on the marina grounds: For the benefit of all users, trolleys should remain within the marina. Please do not take them outside the marina premises.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure everyone has convenient access to trolleys during this busy period. Thank you for your cooperation, and let’s make this summer a smooth and enjoyable one for everyone!

Safety spotlight: working at height

When it comes to working on your vessel, safety should always be the top priority, especially when working at height. Whether you’re scaling a mast or manoeuvring atop a high cabin roof, these activities come with inherent risks. Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind:

Working on rigging

Going up a mast to inspect or work on rigging is a task best left to professionals. We strongly recommend engaging experienced riggers for this kind of work. However, if you do need to ascend a mast yourself, ensure you are fully prepared. Read More

Construction and maintenance update

Westhaven seawall upgrade

In response to recurring coastal flooding caused by severe weather events and king tides on Westhaven’s northern reclamation, a major seawall upgrade project is underway. Led by Eke Panuku, this project aims to enhance protection for people, infrastructure and assets through a redesigned seawall that effectively dissipates wave energy.

Other elements of the project include:

  • Waterfront enhancements: Creating a more attractive and functional waterfront space that complements the Westhaven Marina development
  • Design and ecological initiatives: Collaborating with mana whenua on ecological initiatives, including additional planting to promote biodiversity
  • Improved connectivity: Enhancing connections to the surrounding environment, particularly for pedestrians
  • Futureproofing infrastructure: Upgrading infrastructure and services to meet future demands.

Early works began in March 2024, with completion of the main project expected by early 2025.

In the upcoming planting season, around April, trees will be added to the tree pits along this pathway to enhance the area. Stay tuned for these welcome additions! Read More

Sustainable environment

Discover Rotoroa Island: A haven for boaties

The southern Hauraki Gulf is a boater’s paradise, offering golden sand beaches, sheltered anchorages and diverse experiences for all ages. Nestled within this idyllic region is Rotoroa Island – a hidden gem rich in history and natural beauty.

Owned by the Salvation Army for over a century, Rotoroa has been lovingly restored by a privately funded trust and opened to the public in 2011. Today, it’s a popular anchorage among boaties, where the friendly Rotoroa Island Trust rangers extend a warm welcome to all who come ashore. Read More

Upholding ‘Clean Marina’ standards

In September this year, Westhaven Marina was recertified as a Clean Marina by NZMOA, affirming our continued commitment to minimising our environmental impact.

The NZMOA Clean Marina programme encourages responsible practices among marina operators, contractors and recreational boaters to actively protect the quality of both coastal and inland waters. Currently, 17 marinas (nearly one-third of NZMOA’s members) nationwide participate in the Clean Marina initiative, with ten earning full Clean Marina accreditation.

Marinas Manager Gareth Wilson and Marinas Asset Manager Mike Keown receiving Westhaven Marina’s Clean Marina certificate.

Events

Wynyard Quarter events calendar

From December 2024 to March 2025, Wynyard Quarter will come alive with a fantastic lineup of events – many of them free! Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a foodie, a music fan, or just looking for a relaxing day by the sea, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, including live music, world-class sailing events, and more!

Don’t miss out! Check out the full events calendar here and plan your perfect summer outing. Read More