MARINA NEWS
Welcome to the Winter News
Hi Boaties,
It’s hard to believe that the first half of the year has flown by, bringing spring just around the corner. This winter has been remarkably mild, with sunny, crisp mornings that I am sure many of us have enjoyed!
We extend our gratitude to all the boaters who took advantage of our recent Winter Yard Promotion. The yard was bustling with activity as both local and distant boaters capitalized on the extra discount to carry out their annual maintenance earlier than usual. One boat owner shared, “I’ll be enjoying my summer boating knowing my maintenance is all ticked off!” Our tenants and contractors were pleased with the increased activity, with some commenting on how great it was to see boaters hauling now.
Our marina maintenance team has been incredibly active over the past few months, continuing to maintain and enhance our beautiful marina facilities. You’ll find more details in the articles below.
As a friendly reminder, when connecting to shore power, please ensure you have a current tested and tagged electrical lead. Send a copy of the receipt (a photo of the tag) to the office so we can update your file. Electrical fires are among the highest incidents within a marina, and safety is our priority. A list of registered electricians is available on our website.
The Gulf Harbour Yacht Club has been busy hosting a range of speaker nights, open to everyone- we are delighted to continue supporting the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club by offering a “Participation Prize” for those who enter their boating events.
Lastly, the countdown to the America’s Cup is on, and whether you’re a fan or not, it’s going to be incredibly exciting. Go Team New Zealand!
Murray Dixon - Marina Manager
Marina Updates
Our Projects and Maintenance team have been hard at work implementing upgrades and projects for our Marina and customers.
CCTV Enhancements
Our Security and Surveillance program continues to undergo rolling improvements. This year, we’ve upgraded the pier gate cameras and further optimized our CCTV network. A new camera has been strategically placed to cover the Gate 3 entrance, Administration, and the Trailer Park, offering a southward view.
The CCTV system plays a crucial role in our business administration, with footage occasionally requested by external authorities for their investigations. Already this year, we have provided footage to NZ Customs and NZ Police.
New Dock Carts
In April 2024, we purchased 13 new dock carts to replace those taken offline last year due to being beyond economical repair. We now have over 100 carts across the Marina and our 16 piers. We kindly request all customers to return the dock carts to the car park and the designated cart parking area after use.
Please note that the plastic dock carts are not
designed for heavy loads such as anchor chains or multiple batteries. For such tasks, we provide a heavyduty steel four-wheel cart located in the alcove by our Operations Office. Please return this cart to its location after use.
Marina WiFi Update
The marina WiFi has been operational for some time, and as a refresher for new customers, the complimentary WiFi on the piers includes three separate networks: 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and GHM Instruments (for alarm monitoring and electronic system upgrades). The weekly requirement to validate customer credentials and accept terms and conditions has now been extended to a monthly revalidation.
New Barrier Arms
New barrier arms have been installed and are now operational for our Trailer Park and the Eastern Car Parks (N&O Pier) providing a secure area for customers’ vehicles. The Trailer Park is accessible only via the Inugo app from a customer’s mobile device, with no swipe card/key fob access or license plate recognition. The new eastern barrier incorporates license plate recognition but does not include proximity card or key fob access.
For any inquiries regarding this, please contact our Marina Office at 09 4246200 or VHF Ch 73 for assistance.
T Pier Path Extension
An extension to the public pathway to T Pier has been completed, featuring a 1.5-meter-wide compacted crushed concrete path, allowing allweather and dry access to the pier. For those with the time and who enjoy a nice stroll, there is a scenic walkway around the northeastern end of our Marina, accessible from the end of Harbour Village. Public seating is available along this walkway for resting or simply pondering life,dreaming of being back at sea!
Written by Phil Wiig
Asset and Project Manager
Ovlov Marine’s New Showroom
You may have noticed a promising change on the Peninsula with Ovlov Marine opening their 3rd branch at Gulf Harbour Marina in June 2023, alongside their well-established Westhaven (est. 1978) and Pine Harbour (est. 2009) branches.
The Ovlov Marine team are here to assist with all your regular inboard engine and outboard motor servicing and maintenance needs. They can also help you with full re-power estimates and options if you feel it is time for a full upgrade.
As Authorised Dealers, Ovlov Marine can provide you with access to the full range of genuine Volvo Penta and Yanmar parts. Ovlov have now also brought Yamaha Outboards and genuine factory parts and a trained service centre to the Whangaparaoa Peninsula – Yamaha being the most trusted and reliable brand available on the outboard market.
The OMGH team is headed up by Manager - Adam Hadfield – who has decades of experience and knowledge, assisted at the front counter by Debra Martin and in the workshop by his team of marine technicians who’s combined experience and local flair is further supported by the teams at the other two Ovlov branches.
Ovlov Marine are excited about the future of the Gulf Harbour Marina area – with the new marina development in the wings as well as easier
commutable access with the pending Penlink road project.
If you need any of their services, give them a call on 09 424 1260, or pop into the newly extended showroom at 895 Laurie Southwick Parade and speak to the team, who will be happy to assist.
Ovlov Marine - Handy Boating Tip #1
Checking for water in the fuel
Most vessels are fitted with a water separating fuel filter and most of these have a clear plastic bowl on the lower end of the filter.
These should be checked every 10 hours of boat use to ensure that no water ingress is accruing in the fuel system. By the time the water indicator on the outboard or diesel engine (if it has one) goes off, its mostly too late and the damage has been done.
If it doesn’t have a water trap or you are unsure, contact Ovlov Marine to help. Racor and Separ are the most reliable and quality brands stocked at Ovlov.
Tips for caring for the Stainless on your boat
At Firefish Fabrication, we share your love for boating and the need to care for the stainless steel components on your vessels. In the boating world, 316 marine-grade stainless steel is the go-to material due to its corrosion and saltwater resistance. At Firefish Fabrication, we work with it more regularly than any other metal.
However, despite its toughness, even 316 stainless steel benefits from proper maintenance. Regular care can extend the life of your stainless components, especially those exposed to the elements. Here are a few tips to keep your stainless steel looking bright and sleek.
Post-Outing Wash Downs
After a trip in saltwater, it’s essential to wash down your boat. Products like Salty Captain, which we connect to the hose, make this task easier by providing a thorough rinse without the need for scrubbing. Don’t forget to rinse the stainless steel on the underside of canopy tops, as these areas are often neglected and can accumulate salt, leading to discoloration. This is also a good time to check for loose or rusted screws and parts, so they can be replaced, fixed, or tightened as needed.
Light Cleaning
For light stains and fingerprints, warm water and mild dishwashing soap usually do the trick. Clean with the grain to avoid scratches, rinse thoroughly, and dry well to prevent water spots. Use a soft cloth, such as microfiber, and avoid abrasive or harsh materials that can damage the stainless steel.
Tough Stains and Restoring Shine
For tougher stains and to restore polish and shine, use a gentle marine-grade cleaner like Autosol. Apply it with a soft cloth and use a good amount of elbow grease. Rub vigorously until the stainless turns black and the cleaner starts to dry, then use a clean cloth to wipe off the residue.
Professional Polishing Options
For a more thorough spruce-up, consider removing the stainless components and having them professionally machine-polished or electro-polished. We are happy to help you work through those options.
Dealing with Pitting
If your stainless steel has pitted or developed surface rust, professional help may be needed. In some cases, the surface can be ground down if the stainless is thick enough. If you encounter this issue, feel free to reach out to us for guidance on the best repair or replacement options.
By following these tips, you can ensure your stainless steel components remain in top condition, extending their life and keeping your boat looking its best.
Firefish Fabrication is your onsite metal fabrication workshop at Gulf Harbour Marina, tucked behind the Brin Wilson shed at 779 Laurie Southwick Parade. We always welcome walk-ins from berth holders and locals. For inquiries, email us at: steve@firefishfabrication.co.nz
Check out our new youtube video here showing our exact location!
Hunt for Rogue pests on Motutapu
The joint Department of Conservation and Ngāi Tai Ki Tāmaki response began when a DOC ranger spotted a rat on the island in late April.
Additional tracking tunnels, cameras, and conservation dogs have been deployed, alongside a variety of baits in and around traps.
As the rat (or rats) is avoiding traps, DOC has adopted another strategy of selectively placing the toxic bait brodifacoum in bait stations or discrete locations around the island.
DOC Inner Hauraki Gulf Islands Operations
Manager Kat Lane says it is crucial to keep Motutapu pest-free.
There is increasing urgency around the response, as a range of sea and shore birds, including the tūturuatu and tūturiwhatu/NZ dotterel, will begin their
nesting season from July - eggs and chicks are easy targets for mammalian predators.
Motutapu is also home to other species not commonly seen on the mainland, including tīeke/saddleback, kākāriki/parakeet, korimako/bellbird, and kororā/ blue penguin.
While it is unknown how the rat arrived, Kat says Aucklanders play a major role in keeping these islands pest-free.
“It could have stowed away in a boat, gear or bag, or potentially swam or drifted on debris from the mainland – Norway rats can swim up to 3 km.”
“Boat owners can help keep islands pest free by checking your vessel and gear for rats, mice, ants and skinks before departure. You can also set traps or bait stations on your vessel and in the area it is stored.”
GHYC Speaker Nights
The Speaker Evenings are in full swing at the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club and we hope that you all have had a chance to go down to listen to a few!
Below are the last upcoming talks: 8th August
Essential Boating - Bouyancy Aids & Life Rafts
Industry specialists John Butcher and Grahame Brown discuss pros and cons and demonstrate a range of personal floatation devices and a life raft. Discover how to choose Fit for purpose equipment!
15th August
A Day in the Life of Penny Whiting MBE
Best known as a yachtswoman and owner-operator of her own sailing school, Penny was awarded an MBE in 1993 for her services to sailing. With a passion for conservation, she has been Chair of the Auckland Zoo Charitable trust, authored many books, as well
as other talented acheivements.
29th
August
The Apollo Moon Landings - The Lost Missions
In July 1969, Apollo 11 attracted much media attention and will forever be in the history books. However, five successful landings followed from November 1969 to December 1972, which history has all but forgotten. Renowned Astronomer Dr Chris Benton reviews all six missions, illustrating how each one was more scientifically and technologically advanced than the previous.
Light meals from 6pm, speaker starting at 7pm. 60 to 90 minutes including Q & A.
GHYC members free, Guests $5.
For more information email admin@ghyc.co.nz
Double Rum Fishing Report
April - July 2024
As we dive into the winter fishing season, the fine weather has given us plenty of opportunities to head out and enjoy some fantastic fishing trips.
Winter Fishing Highlights
This season, we’ve taken full advantage of the calm weather days, venturing wide and sitting close under the cliffs at the top of Coromandel. Fishing in shallow waters of 12 to 15 meters, we’ve been using big baits, stray lining, and small sinkers. The results have been impressive, with great quantities of medium-sized snappers being caught. These fish are full of fat, making for juicy fillets.
Navigating the Currents
The top of Coromandel is known for its strong currents. By getting in close, we’ve managed to avoid the ripping currents and find prime fishing spots. About 5 kilometers out from the coast lies what I call the Coromandel Trench, with depths ranging from 55 to 64 meters. This area is teeming with serious fish until September. Fishing here is akin to tackling the Kaipara Harbour, with 3 to 4 knot currents requiring huge sinkers, ledger rigs, and heavy rod and reel setups. We use all our anchor chain to hold steady,
fishing with the tidal flow and sheltering from the chilly winter wind at the back.
Wildlife Sightings
While we haven’t encountered any serious workups, there’s been no shortage of marine life. Plenty of dolphins and local whales have been spotted!
Night Fishing
Our night trips to Auckland City have been particularly fruitful, with plenty of squid caught off the Bayswater outside poles. There’s something magical about fishing under the city lights, with the skyline providing a stunning backdrop!
Exploring New Waters
Get out there when you can - we can’t comment so much on fishing near Whangaparaoa , as the days and evenings have been so nice we have travelled further out!
Double Rum Fishing Charters operates out of Gulf Harbour Marina. If you have a group and are interested in experiencing some of the best fishing New Zealand has to offer, give us a call!
By Brett Fleetwood - 021975576
The Kitchen Door
Hello, my name is Sean Michael Kellingray. Born in London, England, I am now also a proud citizen of New Zealand. My culinary adventure began nearly 50 years ago!
I had the privilege of serving my apprenticeship at the renowned Savoy Hotel in London. This esteemed institution, which was the first hotel in the UK to have electric lights, opened many kitchen doors for me across the globe. During my time there, I even witnessed some of the ovens still being powered by coal!
I earned my City and Guilds certificates from the Westminster College of Culinary Arts in London. Interestingly, this college was established by Auguste Escoffier, the first head chef of the Savoy, to educate local staff on the intricacies of fine dining.
After gaining experience in several Michelin-starred restaurants in London over six years, I decided it was time for some well-deserved “me time.”, I bought a one-way ticket to Toronto, Canada, armed only with my CV.
My travels took me far and wide. I worked as a waiter in Vancouver, a chef at the famed Ma Maison in West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and continued my culinary escapades in Hawaii and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Remarkably, I managed all of this without a single working visa - the power of the Savoy Hotel apprenticeship!
Fast forward to today, The Kitchen Door was founded about ten years ago and has been nestled in the Gulf Harbour Marina for the past eighteen months, right opposite the Marina reception. Our vision is to serve
high-quality food made from scratch on-site, avoiding the harmful chemicals found in mass-produced foods. We make our own pastry using butter and homemade lard, craft our own stocks and jellies, make our own ham and bacon and even smoke our own fish, chicken, and beef. Our Cornish pasties have been voted number one by Choice New Zealand.
In addition to this, we roast our own coffee, create oldfashioned lemonades and iced fruit teas, and offer a variety of real fruit ice creams. We are excited to announce plans to open an international delicatessen at The Kitchen Door soon!
Stay updated with our latest news and offerings by following us on Facebook and Instagram!
Kingfish Panang Curry Recipe
Nicky Sinden, from Addicted to Fishing, has graciously given us another delicious recipe - one especially good for these winter nights!
Theres nothing better than partnering a curry with a tasty, juicy kingfish. If you can’t get your hands on one, this would work with virtually any fish - just be aware to not overcook it, it doesn’t take long to poach in the curry sauce.
Ingredients
• 1 red capsicum, sliced
• 1 yellow capsicum, sliced
• 1 spring onion, cut into 1 inch pieces (green part)
• 1 can of coconut milk
• 2 Tbsp of fish sauce
• 3 Tbsp Penang curry paste
• Juice & zest of 1/2 a lime
• 1/4 cup of water
• 1 cup of broccoli, cut into bite sized florets
• 300g of kingfish
To garnish:
• Roasted salted peanuts, chopped
• Fresh coriander
• Roti or rice
Method
1. In a frypan with high sides, brown your capsicum with a little bit of oil over a medium heat. Add in your spring onions and cook for a minute.
2. Add the coconut milk, fish sauce, curry paste, lime and water. Simmer until it thickens a wee bit.
3. Trim all the blood lines and skin off your kingfish. Cut it into decent 1 inch thick pieces.
4. Just before serving, as the sauce is simmering, add in the broccoli and poach the raw kingfish.
5. Only cook the fish for 3 minutes or so, turning once. Take it off the heat and serve immediately (to ensure it doesn’t over cook).
6. Serve with roti or rice, fresh coriander and chopped peanuts.
Enjoy!
• Haulout capable of lifting vessels up to 100T
• Dedicated hardstand for servicing and repairing vessels
• Drystack for trailer boats up to 10 metres. Store your boat securely, then launch and re-store on demand via text! Avoid the fuss of towing a boat and skip the line at busy boat ramps
• On-site marine service centre offering a full range of marine trade servies
• Trailer Park Storage - Our multi-purpose flat and convenient storage area has been designed to store boats on trailers, containers, motorhomes or caravans
BERTHS FOR SALE
We have berths for sale in prime positions at the marina Enquires to Maria on 09 424 6200 or visit our online store using the QR Code below
