New Zealand’s marine sector is going global and social with a networking initiative linking expat-Kiwis and their pool of connections, expertise and reputation to boost the local industry.

Launched by the New Zealand Marine Industry (NZMI), the new social network will be open to Kiwis working in the marine sector around the world who want to support their home industry.

The number of expat-Kiwis working on superyachts and in the supporting marine industry abroad is estimated at hundreds of thousands, 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 at harnessing those Kiwi connections through social media networks to help boost future business. The New Zealand marine industry currently has NZ$1.7 billion turnover which includes NZ$650m in exports – from a workforce of 8000 employees including 450 apprentices.

The aim is to double exports in the next seven years.

Emirates Team New Zealand 
NZ Marine Industry executive director Peter Busfield said Friends of NZ Marine was launched at the Auckland Emirates Team New Zealand base, because they are one of the New Zealand industry’s most dynamic ambassadors.

“Emirates Team New Zealand is the perfect example of what Friends of NZ Marine is all about. It is high profile, has a reputation for the highest quality and is made up of a group of people who have many, many connections worldwide.”

At the time of the announcement the ETNZ base was being dismantled and loaded into containers, along with the giant AC72 catamaran to be shipped to San Francisco for the forthcoming 34th America’s Cup.

New Zealand will have a strong presence both on and off the water in San Francisco, and Busfield believes Friends of NZ Marine will be well positioned to take maximum advantage of Emirates Team New Zealand’s high profile. The initiative will also be aimed at international boat shows, conferences and the networks of NZMI’s 450 member companies.

Source: www.breakingtravelnews.com

Tracy