Auckland leads New Zealand superyacht boom

Auckland enjoyed a record superyacht season between April 2013 and March 2014 with $29 million net economic impact to the regional economy.

The significant value of the superyacht sector is confirmed in an independent report by the Superyacht Intelligence Agency, which was commissioned by the Destination New Zealand Superyacht Attraction Initiative Group.

The report shows that 37 superyachts visited New Zealand throughout the season, with each yacht contributing more than $1 million in net economic value to the national economy – generating a combined total of $39.5 million.

Visiting superyachts spent the largest amount of time in Auckland – and of the $29 million total economic impact, $4.3 million was spent specifically on tourism related activities in the greater Auckland region.

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) Chief Executive Brett O’Riley says Auckland is a natural mecca for superyachts.

“As well as the stunning cruising opportunities of the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland offers a world-class city, with shopping, dining and events right on the marina’s doorstep. Superyacht owners and crew love the range of experiences and the relative anonymity that a stay in Auckland offers,” says Mr O’Riley.

The strong superyacht season was buoyed by an expansion to Auckland’s main location for vessels to berth – Silo Marina in Wynyard Quarter – with the facility tripling in size.

Tourism New Zealand Director of Major Events, Trade and Public Relations, Justin Watson, says the country’s tourism sector benefited strongly from visiting superyachts last season.

“$8.25 million was spent specifically on tourism related activities. With owners and guests on-board for only 12 per cent of the average stay, the yachts’ crew had a higher contribution, spending a combined $6.7 million on tourism activities.”

“New Zealand offers a unique and diverse range of luxury products, experiences and culture, which make it ideal for superyacht owners to enjoy the destination for cruising,” he says.

The report confirmed the superyacht sector’s strong potential for growth and the significant economic benefit to both the tourism and marine sectors in New Zealand. Of the $39.5 million net economic benefit to the country, $31.25 million benefited the marine services sector.

Already well-established as a Pacific hub for superyachts with a penchant for adventure, New Zealand has also become a sought-after destination for yachts requiring refit and repair.

New Zealand is home to international award-winning superyacht yards and has many skilled tradespeople who refit some of the world’s most prestigious and high-performance luxury yachts.

Auckland is the hub of New Zealand’s marine sector with 60 per cent of the country’s industry based within the Auckland region.

Ends

© Scoop Media