First New Zealand Marina and Boatyard Conference speakers announced
by New Zealand Marina Operators Association 17 Jul 18:34 NZST
10-12 September 2025
Dave Beech © New Zealand Marina Operators Association
With two months until conference day, NZMOA is delighted to welcome world-class entrepreneurs, industry experts, and epic entertainment to the New Zealand Marina and Boatyard Conference in Queenstown, 10-12 September.
Keynote speaker Rod Drury will be a highlight. Rod is local to Queenstown and will talk about founding the global small business accounting platforming Xero, and his passion for 'large scale public good infrastructure opportunities' including New Zealand's first e-marine hub - which you will see when the conference visits Queenstown Marina.
You'll learn about the global and local economy from famed economist Tony Alexander, from regional leaders such as RealNZ CEO Dave Beech, and enjoy a special presentation from Iraj Barabi, who made Queenstown Marina happen and now has a suite of businesses in the town.
This year has seen the rollout of new fast track approvals and development of new and amended national resource management direction including significant changes to the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement. Sally Gepp KC will present an update on 2024's key developments in planning and consenting and insights into future resource management law changes.
Australia will be there in force with their industry leaders will informing and updating you on how they are realising opportunities: Suzanne Davies of Marina Industries Association, Andrew Chapman of Goast City Marina & Shipyard, Peter Moxham of D'albora Marinas and more.
You'll learn about local success stories where the industry is achieving great things, and Lesley Southwick of MAST Academy will update you on plans that are under way for more comprehensive industry learning.
The event also includes two dinners: a casual dinner at Harry's Pool Hall on the Wednesday night will include a pool competition, and we have booked in the world-class magician and comedian Brendan Dooley to make us laugh at Thursday's formal dinner.
We are excited about the upcoming conference and we will update you on timing and announce more speakers soon.
You can learn more about our speakers here and registrations are now open online.