About Us
Passionate about yachts, committed to your peace of mind
Our Story
Built on trust, expertise, and a love of the sea
Whangarei Yacht Support was founded to fill a gap in the market — providing yacht owners with a single, trusted point of contact for all their vessel care needs in Northland. Based in Whangarei, one of New Zealand's premier refit and cruising destinations, we serve both visiting international yachts and locally berthed vessels.
What started as guardianage services for cruising yachts has grown into a comprehensive offering including project management, owner representative services, and accommodation. Our reputation is built on reliability, transparent communication, and genuine care for every vessel we look after.
Whangārei Yacht Support (WYS) exists for one simple reason: cruising sailors need trusted hands to care for their boats while they’re away.
The idea for the business grew naturally after four years and 20,000 nautical miles spent living aboard a 43-foot yacht and becoming part of the incredible global community of liveaboard sailors.
When we returned to Northland, I expected to feel proud. Instead, I felt lost. I had been a mother, project manager, world traveller and now, I didn’t know who I was.
We settled in Whangarei and stayed close to the cruising community, and before long I found myself doing all the things I loved: helping friends with their boats, storing gear, arranging deliveries, lending out our car, passing on local knowledge, hosting dinners and offering a bed when time was needed time off the boat.
That’s when the spark hit - what if this became more than just favours for friends? If they needed support, surely others did too.
WYS was born out of lived experience. We know what boat owners worry about, because we’ve been there. And we know how much peace of mind comes from having someone reliable on the ground, someone who understands boats, and the lifestyle that comes with them.
If you're coming to Whangarei, get in touch. Even if it's just to swap stories over coffee. But if you're looking for someone to care for your boat as if it were their own, you’ve found the right place.
What Sets Us Apart
Marine Experience
We understand the needs and expectations of cruisers, because we have been cruisers ourselves and have undertaken refits, maintenance and big projects on our boat. Since establishing WYS, we have worked with numerous boats of all shapes, sizes and types.
Local Knowledge
Deep roots in the Whangarei marine industry mean we understand local contractors, suppliers, and the unique needs of vessels in this region.
Our Mission
To provide yacht owners with complete peace of mind through reliable, transparent, and professional vessel care — treating every yacht as if it were our own.
Professionalism
We are dedicated, assured and maintain the highest standards in every inspection, project, and client interaction.
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Safety
Safety of your vessel, crew, and our team is our highest priority.
Reliability
Consistent, dependable service you can count on, rain or shine.
Professionalism
Qualified, experienced staff who treat every vessel as their own.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
Get in touch today for a personalised quote or to discuss your vessel's needs.