PORT Marlborough and Marlborough Sounds Marinas has announced the successful achievement of the International Clean Marina certification for three of their sites.
Marina operator Marlborough Sounds Marinas (MSM), part of Port Marlborough’s operation, recently received the accreditation from the Marina Industries Association and the International Council of Marine Industry Associations.
The achievement is a first for New Zealand, with MSM being the first marina operation in the country to receive the accreditation, with all three MSM marinas at Picton, Waikawa and Havelock receiving the award.
The International Clean Marina Program is an accreditation system designed for marinas, yacht clubs, boat clubs, slipways, boatyards, and associated industry operators to elevate environmental practices in marina operations. It aims to reduce pollution associated with boating and marina facilities, promoting clean water, clean air, and successful marina businesses.
The certification process includes rigorous criteria encompassing environmental operating procedures, results, emergency procedures, asset maintenance, and customer awareness and education.
Anouk Euzeby, manager of MSM, said, “Gaining the certification is a really 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 the construction of 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.”
Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn said, “Port Marlborough has a vision to lead the way as an environmentally restorative port, and this achievement by our marinas team speaks directly to that commitment, as well as the team’s efforts to lead by example for environmental excellence in the marina industry.”
All three MSM marinas are located in the northern coastline of New Zealand’s South Island, in the Marlborough Sounds region as the name states.
