New Zealand’s marine sector goes global and social with a networking initiative linking expat-Kiwis and their pool of connections, expertise and reputation to lift the local industry.
Launched by the recent Zealand Marine Industry (NZMI), the hot social network shall be open to Kiwis working within the marine sector all over the world who would like to support their home industry.
The collection of expat-Kiwis engaged on superyachts and within the supporting marine industry abroad is estimated at 1000’s, and their combined connections and good reputation are seen as a valuable resource in driving new business home.
The new initiative ‘Friends of NZ Marine’ is aimed toward harnessing those Kiwi connections through social media networks to aid boost future business. The brand new Zealand marine industry currently has NZ$1.7 billion turnover consisting of NZ$650m in exports – from a workforce of 8000 employees including 450 apprentices.
The aim is to double exports inside the next seven years.
Emirates Team New Zealand
NZ Marine Industry executive director Peter Busfield said Friends of NZ Marine was launched on the Auckland Emirates Team New Zealand base, because they’re probably the most New Zealand industry’s most dynamic ambassadors.
“Emirates Team New Zealand is the best example of what Friends of NZ Marine is all about. It’s high profile, has a name for the best quality and is made of a collection of people that have many, many connections worldwide.”
At the time of the announcement the ETNZ base was being dismantled and loaded into containers, along side the enormous AC72 catamaran to be shipped to San Francisco for the forthcoming 34th America’s Cup.
New Zealand could have a robust presence both off and on the water in San Francisco, and Busfield believes Friends of NZ Marine would be well positioned to take maximum benefit of Emirates Team New Zealand’s high profile. The initiative may also be aimed toward international boat shows, conferences and the networks of NZMI’s 450 member companies.