Summer Is Coming. Is Your Boat Ready?
Hi everyone,
We’re getting a sneak peek at summer (which is great). The days are getting longer and it's great to see more boats heading out on the water.
If your boat has been hibernating over winter and you’re thinking about getting back on the water, now's the time to get organised. If you've been a Tamaki Marine Park drystack customer in the past, remember it's the easiest way to make the most of those prime summer boating days.
Last month, I also attended the NZ Marina and Boatyard Conference in Tauranga, a great chance to catch up with other operators, hear what's happening around the country and see what innovations we can bring back to TMP. Stay tuned!
This month we've got an update on marina berth availability, a look at our drystack operation, some of the work happening around the boatyard and a few thoughts on what El Niño could mean for Auckland boaties this summer.
As always, if there's anything we can help with, drop in and let us know!
Safe boating,
– Martin and the Tamaki Marine Park Team
Drystack: More Boating, Less Hassle
One of the best things about having your boat in the Tamaki Marine Park drystack is how easy it makes getting out on the water.
We recently caught up with Nick Crabtree from Boatseeker, who had a chat with Martin about how the TMP drystack works and why so many boaties enjoy the convenience.
Marina Berths: Secure a Spot for Summer
If you're looking for a marina berth this summer, we'd recommend getting in touch sooner rather than later.
Last year, we had a real rush for berths, especially in the 18 to 21 metre range, and we'd hate for anyone to miss out because they left it too late.
We also have a limited number of berths available for boats around 14 metres, so if you're looking for somewhere convenient to keep your boat, get in touch.
Worried about being locked down for a year?
We have flexible berth arrangements, so you don't necessarily need to commit for a full 12 months.
Summer Work Is Rolling Into the Boatyard
You can always tell when summer is getting close. The boatyard starts filling up as owners get their boats ready for another season on the water. There's plenty happening at the moment, from routine servicing and maintenance through to repairs, painting, upgrades and larger projects.
Sorry to sound like a broken record, but if you've got work you've been meaning to get done, don't leave it too late! (You’d be surprised by how many panic calls we get before Xmas.)
El NiÑo: What Could It Mean for Auckland Boaties This Summer?
There’s been plenty of chatter about El Niño and what it could mean for our summer weather.
For Auckland, El Niño conditions normally bring more frequent westerly and southwesterly winds. That can mean lovely sunny days, but also a few challenges when you're planning a trip out on the water.
A few things worth keeping in mind:
Hauraki Gulf: Westerly winds can leave the water looking relatively calm close to shore, but conditions may be quite different further out. And remember, that offshore breeze can mean a bumpy trip home.
Waitematā Harbour: Stronger afternoon winds can whip up a short, uncomfortable chop, particularly when the wind is working against the tide.
West Coast: The Manukau and Kaipara entrances can be particularly challenging when strong westerlies combine with large swells. Always check the bar conditions before heading out.
Fishing: Wind, currents and changing water temperatures can all influence where fish are feeding. You may need to be a bit more flexible about where and when you head out.
The main thing is not to assume that a sunny day means calm boating conditions.
Check the marine forecast before leaving, keep an eye on the wind throughout the day and make sure you've got a safe plan for getting home.
We recommend checking PredictWind or MetService before heading out, particularly if you're planning to venture further into the Gulf.
