The Marlborough Sounds is one of New Zealand’s most treasured marine environments—a place of stunning beauty, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural significance. At Marlborough Marinas, we take our role as kaitiaki (guardians) seriously and encourage you to do so as well.

All three Marlborough Marinas—Picton, Waikawa, and Havelock—are proud to be accredited as International Clean Marinas, the first in New Zealand to achieve this status. This recognition reflects our dedication, and yours, to reducing pollution, minimizing waste, and protecting biodiversity.

As we head into a very busy time at our marinas here is a reminder of how you can help to keep our marinas clean for all to enjoy.

How You Can Play Your Part

Prevent Fuel Spills

• Always refuel at the fuel jetty, not at your berth.
• Avoid overfilling tanks and keep absorbent pads handy.
• Notify a marina staff member of any spills.

Safe Refuelling – Marlborough Marinas

Keep Bilges Clean

• Check your bilge before you launch.
• Use absorbent pads to remove oil from bilge water.
• Never pump contaminated bilge water into the sea.

Why Your Bilge Matters More Than You Think – Marlborough Marinas

Manage Waste Responsibly

• Never discharge untreated sewage or grey water in prohibited areas (inner Sounds, near marine farms, reserves, or shallow waters).
• Use pump-out stations at the marinas remembering to plan ahead during peak times.

Holding Tanks & Discharging – Marlborough Marinas

Keep a clean hull

• All vessels coming from a high-risk area to have been antifouled in the last six months, or lifted and washed in the last month.
• Take photos of your boat before it goes back in the water, and keep receipts from your haul out
• Make sure your boat is well antifouled and check the hard-to-reach spots like keel bulbs, props and water intakes carefully.

Protecting the Marlborough Sounds Starts with Your Boat – Marlborough Marinas

Respect Marine Life

• Keep clear of marine reserves and sensitive habitats.
• Respect the fishing rules and seasonal closures (Blue cod season is currently closed until January 10th)
• Avoid anchoring in seagrass beds or near marine farms.
• Observe wildlife from a distance.

Blue Cod in the Marlborough Sounds – Marlborough Marinas

By embracing kaitiakitanga and following sustainable boating practices, we can ensure these waters remain healthy and vibrant for generations to come.