If you're planning to get out on the water this summer, now is the time to start thinking about boat maintenance.
Boat owners are being encouraged to book hull cleaning, antifouling and other essential maintenance early, before boatyards and marine contractors enter their busiest time of year.
Auckland Council’s Team Manager Pathways, Liz Brooks, says a little planning now can help avoid unexpected costs, delays and disruptions when the warmer weather arrives.
“Leaving maintenance until the last minute can make it harder to secure a haul-out space, specialist tradespeople or replacement parts.
“Creating a maintenance checklist and booking work early gives boat owners more flexibility. It also allows time to deal with any issues that may be uncovered during inspections, helping keep summer cruising plans on track,” says Brooks.
A clean hull helps protect our marine environment
Regular hull maintenance does more than improve a boat’s performance. It also plays an important role in preventing the spread of marine pests.
Sam Happy, Senior Marine Biosecurity Advisor at Auckland Council, says biofouling can build up in many places around a vessel.
“Marine growth doesn’t just accumulate on the hull. It can also be found on propellers, shafts, seawater intakes and around the keel,” says Samantha.
“A clean hull and a well-maintained antifouling coating help improve fuel efficiency and reduce the risk of marine pests being transported to new locations.”
This is particularly important for boats travelling between regions or visiting environmentally significant coastal areas. Different parts of New Zealand have their own marine biosecurity requirements, so checking the rules before setting off is an important part of trip planning.
“The last thing anyone wants is a maintenance problem disrupting their holiday, or arriving at their destination only to find their boat doesn’t meet local biofouling requirements,” says Happy.
Plan ahead for maintenance
Alongside hull cleaning and antifouling, boat owners may want to schedule engine servicing, anode replacement, propeller and shaft work, electrical repairs, and checks of safety equipment.
Some boatyards suggest booking a thorough clean before summer, then scheduling larger maintenance projects for later in the season when demand is typically lower.
Boat owners can find practical advice on hull maintenance, information about biofouling requirements around New Zealand and a directory of haul-out facilities on the Marine Pests website.