Port Marlborough has reported positive progress in its Half Year Report, reflecting solid performance across key strategic focus areas of people, planet, prosperity, and partnerships. The report provides a snapshot of operations over the first six-months of the 2025 financial year, and shows that investment in workforce capability remains a priority, with new marine cadetships, and workforce development programmes supporting career growth and a strong workplace culture. Critical risk and fatigue risk management measures have been implemented, alongside a continued focus on employee wellbeing, supporting the port’s priority of prioritising the Hauora (Health, Safety and Wellbeing) of all people in their workplaces. Environmental progress has been a highlight, with Marlborough Sounds Marinas becoming the first in New Zealand to achieve International Clean Marina accreditation, recognising high standards in marinas management through marine biosecurity and environmental controls and initiatives. Across operations, 82% of waste has been diverted from landfill, and habitat restoration efforts continue, with thousands of native plants established in key areas. Revenue has increased by 13% compared to the same period last year, driven by strong trade performance and increased berthage uptake at Waikawa North West Marina. Forestry trade has grown by 18%, supported by the completion of the South Island’s first on-port debarking facility, developed in partnership with Pedersen Group and C3, at Shakespeare Bay. Chief Executive Rhys Welbourn said the results reflect the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and long-term investment. “These results highlight the benefits of our continued investment in infrastructure, environmental initiatives, and workforce capability. Key trade areas are performing well, our marinas remain in high demand, and our sustainability initiatives are delivering measurable outcomes. The International Clean Marina accreditation is a milestone achievement and highlights how seriously we take the importance of marine biosecurity across our operations. “As we move into the second half of the financial year, we remain focused on delivering value for Marlborough, supporting key trades, and ensuring our investment decisions continue to contribute to Marlborough’s long-term success.” Partnerships with industry, iwi, and regional stakeholders remain a key focus, with Port Marlborough hosting the launch of the Protect Our Boating Paradise national boaties’ biosecurity campaign over the period, and continuing to support local initiatives through community sponsorships. Read the 2025 Half Year Report here. ## Ends ## About Port Marlborough Port Marlborough owns and operates Marlborough’s regional port and is home to New Zealand’s largest marina network, comprising Picton, Waikawa, and Havelock marinas. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating and enabling Marlborough’s economy through industries such as forestry, aquaculture, tourism, and recreational boating. As the main port connection between the North and South Islands, Port Marlborough facilitates vital trade routes and provides essential services for freight, passenger ferries, and cruise ships. Since 1988, Port Marlborough has returned over $90m to its shareholder Marlborough District Council Holdings Ltd in dividends. Guided by a vision to be an environmentally restorative port, Port Marlborough continues to invest in infrastructure, partnerships, and environmental initiatives that enable long-term sustainability and regional growth. Media Inquiries: Contact Connie Smith | GM Communications & Engagement, Port Marlborough NZ Ltd, 027 404 6135 | connie.smith@pmnz.co.nz
