The New Zealand Superyacht Group (NZSG) has been recently launched by a number of leading superyacht companies, in order to boost the superyacht and luxury yacht charter industry in the breath-taking New Zealand yacht holiday location. With the board members to be appointed in the upcoming weeks, the group will concentrate on a number of areas, including promoting New Zealand to superyacht owners, fostering collaboration and alignment within the superyacht industry, as well as sharing resources at offshore events.  

New Zealand is becoming increasingly popular as a superyacht and luxury yacht charter destination with last season being one of busiest. In the summer, a total number of 57 vessels reached the fantastic New Zealand, up from 37 visits the season before.  This was the highest number of superyacht visits since New Zealand played a host to the America’s Cup in 2000.

With the New Zealand dollar at its lowest in years against the US dollar, NZSG says it will strive to ensure demand for members’ products as well as services is maximised, and maintain close relationships with regulators and share best practice.

According to Duthie Lidgard, Managing director of Asia Pacific Superyachts New Zealand, and NZSG member, a dedicated organisation is needed to grow the country’s superyacht sector. “The needs of the superyacht sector have traditionally been squeezed between the marine leisure and the professional marine industries,” says Mr Lidgard. “The NZSG will fully support its members, who are the best in their field and pride themselves in being able to meet the high standards demanded by owners, guests and crew.” 

134m super yacht SERENE docked in Auckland’s Silo Marina

Among the vessels to visit New Zealand recently have been two of the largest superyachts in the world. Earlier in the year, the 134m luxury yacht Serene enjoyed the waters of the New Zealand coast, while the 140m mega yacht Ocean Victory reached Auckland in July.

“Attracting vessels like Serene and Ocean Victory to New Zealand is a huge coup for the industry. Each visit contributes significantly to New Zealand’s economy through tourism, hospitality and marine services,” added Mr Lidgard. “The formation of the NZSG will allow us to continue promoting the New Zealand superyacht industry to the world and get more of the world’s biggest superyachts to our shores.”