New Zealand has announced the restriction-free reopening of its borders, coincid-ing with the new superyacht hub of the South Pacific nearing completion.
“We’re now known globally as not just clean and green, but as safe.”
That was the message from New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern today, as she announced the dropping of border restrictions, meaning international visitors from visa waiver countries, will be able to arrive on New Zealand shores from May 1 without any isolation requirements.
The announcement coincides with a superyacht hub in the South Pacific, Orams Marine’s, comprehensive new facilities swinging into action.
This gives large, world-cruising superyachts a safe, sustainable, and world-class refit facility to haul out in, in the heart of one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
Over the past two years Orams Marine has added an 820 tonne travel lift, an 85 tonne travel lift, an expanded hardstand, an 85 tonne work shed, doubled marina capacity with three 90 metre marina fingers, and added a built in water treatment plant, to the comprehensive yard which also includes a 600 tonne slipway, tender storage, quality on-site services, and a team which has been working with superyachts since 1987.
Under construction for next season are large marine work sheds capable of housing vessels up to 60 metres.
With yachts now moving back into the South Pacific, the central Auckland yard has also expanded its services, with immigration and clearance services, destination guides, an on-site host, and a number of new crew facilities planned for next year.
“As the most-experienced superyacht refit facility in the South Pacific, we are delighted to welcome back our friends from around the world,” says Orams Marine Services managing director, Craig Park.
“Our team is ready to assist with all immigration enquiries, as well as plotting a course through the Pacific. We can’t wait to be a part of yachts’ maintenance and refit programmes, and help them explore this exceptional part of the world.”
Orams Marine has served the marine industry from its Auckland location for 35 years and CEO, Neven Barbour says the new additions allow the world-class facility in a world-class location, to work with large superyachts on complex refit needs.
The 32,000 square metre site is set in the heart of Auckland’s marine precinct in a prime waterfront location, and is a five minute walk from Auckland’s CBD and entertainment and hospitality precincts. The region’s leading yard has become a favourite with refitting crew due to its high-quality work, excellent amenities nearby, secure crew housing, and easy access to Auckland’s Harbour and Hauraki Gulf islands.
“This is the gateway to some of the most-adventurous cruising grounds in the world,” says Barbour.
For more information about Orams Marine visit https://www.orams.co.nz/