Port Marlborough and Marlborough Sounds Marinas are delighted to announce the successful achievement of the International Clean Marina certification through the Marina Industries Association (MIA) for the Asia Pacific Region, and the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA), marking a significant milestone in their commitment to kaitiakitanga (environmental stewardship) and excellence in marina management. The International Clean Marina Program is an international accreditation system designed for marinas, yacht clubs, boat clubs, slipways, boatyards, and associated industry operators to elevate environmental practices in marina operations. Ā The program 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. All three marina sitesāPicton, Waikawa, and Havelockāhave been individually assessed and accredited as “International Clean Marinas.” Ā This achievement is a historic first for New Zealand, as Marlborough Sounds Marinas is the first marina operation in the country to receive this accreditation. “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. ” said Anouk Euzeby, Manager of Marlborough Sounds Marinas. Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn said āPort 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 teamās efforts to lead by example for environmental excellence in the marina industry. āWe are extremely proud of our team for achieving this and will be holding this new standard as a benchmark for continuous improvement in our marina operations.ā ## Ends ## For more information about the International Clean Marina Program, please visit Ā https://www.marinas.net.au/accreditation-programs/steps-to-becoming-a-clean-marina About Marlborough Sounds Marinas Marlborough Sounds Marinas is New Zealandās largest marina operator, comprising a network of three marinasāPicton, Waikawa, and Havelockāsituated in the stunning Marlborough Sounds. The marinas provide comprehensive marina services, including berthing, haul-out, and maintenance facilities to local and visiting boat owners. With a strong focus on customer service, environmental sustainability, and community engagement, Marlborough Sounds Marinas is dedicated to setting the standard for excellence in the marina industry, and providing world-class service and facilities to the boating community they serve. ## For media inquiries, please contact: Connie Smith | GM Communications & Engagement, Port Marlborough| connie.smith@pmnz.co.nz For environmental queries, please contact Rebekah Anderson | Environmental Manager, Port Marlborough| rebekah.anderson@pmnz.co.nzĀ
