Auckland, New Zealand, March 2026 — SeaKeepers South Pacific Chapter is proud to announce
Waiheke Marina as its first official marina partner in New Zealand, marking a significant milestone
for the organization’s expanding presence in the South Pacific.
Located on the stunning coastline of Waiheke Island, the marina offers a unique destination for
visiting vessels, with short- and long-term berthing options and access to the island’s renowned
natural beauty and coastal ecosystems.
This partnership represents an important step in strengthening SeaKeepers’ mission to advance
oceanographic research, conservation, and education through the yachting community
ADVANCING OCEAN CONSERVATION IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC
The SeaKeepers South Pacific Chapter, established in 2023, connects vessels, scientists, and
educators across the region to support marine research and conservation initiatives.
As a Marina Partner, Waiheke Marina will serve as a key hub for:
- Supporting visiting research and DISCOVERY vessels
- Facilitating citizen science initiatives
- Enabling educational outreach opportunities
- Promoting sustainable boating practices
Marinas play a critical role in SeaKeepers’ global network by providing essential dockage and
logistical support for scientific and conservation-based activities at sea.
A SHARED VISION FOR MARINE STEWARDSHIP
Through this collaboration, Waiheke Marina joins a growing international network of partners
committed to protecting and restoring the world’s oceans. SeaKeepers works globally to unite vessel
owners, scientists, and communities to address pressing marine challenges through research,
education, and advocacy.
“We are thrilled to welcome Waiheke Marina as our first marina partner in New Zealand. This
collaboration strengthens our ability to support marine science and education in one of the most
ecologically significant regions in the world.” – Melissa White, Director of SeaKeepers South Pacific.
Tom Warren, Melissa White, and Lance Sheppard
Waiheke Marina
EXPANDING IMPACT ACROSS NEW ZEALAND
This partnership underscores SeaKeepers’ continued growth in the South Pacific and its commitment
to building meaningful collaborations throughout New Zealand and beyond.
By engaging local marinas, vessel owners, and communities, SeaKeepers aims to:
- Increase access to marine research platforms
- Expand educational programming for students and educators
- Strengthen conservation efforts in coastal ecosystems
- Inspire the next generation of ocean stewards
ABOUT WAIHEKE MARINA
Waiheke Marina is a modern destination marina located at Kennedy Point in Putiki Bay on Waiheke
Island, within the Hauraki Gulf near Auckland, New Zealand. The marina provides a safe and well
serviced base for recreational and visiting vessels exploring the Gulf and surrounding islands.
The facility was developed as a purpose-built island marina and includes approximately 180 berths
designed for vessels ranging from around 12 to 30 metres. The marina features modern
infrastructure including floating pontoons, a fixed wharf, marina office facilities, parking, and visitor
amenities.
Waiheke Marina offers serviced berths with water and power connections, secure mooring facilities,
and high-quality amenities such as showers, restrooms, and waste disposal services for berth
holders and visiting vessels. The marina also provides easy access to Waiheke Island’s transport
links, vineyards, beaches, and tourism experiences, making it a convenient gateway for boaters
visiting the island and the wider Hauraki Gulf region.
ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL SEAKEEPERS SOCIETY
The International SeaKeepers Society is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organisation that facilitates
oceanographic research, conservation, and education through direct involvement with the yachting
community. Providing educational resources and hands-on marine science experiences to students
is the primary focus for ensuring the wellbeing of our planet. SeaKeepers enables the yachting
community to take full advantage of their unique potential to advance marine sciences and raise
awareness about global ocean issues.
Founded in Monaco in 1998, The International SeaKeepers Society has been supporting ocean
conservation through direct involvement with the yachting community for more than twenty-seven
years. What started as a data collection program aboard select luxury yachts, has evolved to engage
thousands of participants annually with at-sea and coastal programming. Today SeaKeepers’
mission is focused on the DISCOVERY Programme which is comprised of Scientist-Led Expeditions,
Citizen Science, Educational Outreach, and Community Engagement.
As a catalyst working with governments, scientists, institutions, and other marine organizations to
further its mission, SeaKeepers supports sensible, achievable marine protection and restoration.
Activities take place globally through the efforts of headquarters based in the United States with
offices located on the east and west coast, and international representation in Singapore, the South
Pacific, and the United Kingdom.