| 3 T T Anne Boswell Exploring maritime attractions in style Explore Group has anchored itself as an innovative leader in maritime tourism REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Explore Group Whether your idea of heaven is discovering pristine island sanctuaries, sightseeing in spectacular marine parks, or experiencing the Waitemata Harbour through the eyes of an America’s Cup sailor, Explore Group can bring that magic to life with one of its unique maritime experiences. Since its beginnings during the first America’s Cup in Auckland in 2000, Explore Group has anchored itself as an innovative leader in maritime tourism, creating unforgettable experiences that connect people to New Zealand’s breathtaking natural environment. “When we captured the opportunity to take people sailing on an authentic America’s Cup yacht, it was a unique experience that had not been done before,” managing director William Goodfellow says. That bold move marked the start of what has become an expansive, vibrant business. Explore Group’s spirit of innovation and expansion continues, with the introduction of two new vessels operating out of Auckland – one that travels to Tiritiri Matangi Island and offers the Tikapa Moana Whales, Dolphin and Island Cruise, and another that visits Rotoroa Island and the stunning Man O’ War vineyard and the brand-new Forest Flight Zipline experience on Waiheke Island. These additions allow more visitors to experience the Hauraki Gulf’s extraordinary wildlife and landscapes in comfort and style. Explore Group extended its operations to the Bay of Islands in 2003, launching a large sailing vessel that offered visitors a new way to explore the region. It now caters to a wide range of markets – from locals wanting to rediscover their own backyard, to domestic travellers and international visitors seeking iconic and unique New Zealand experiences. Explore Group’s offerings also include exclusive charters for small groups wanting a private adventure – from corporate teambuilding to weddings, special occasions and events. In the Bay of Islands, with significant investment Explore Group is launching a brand-new flagship cruise vessel for its renowned Hole in the Rock and Urupukapuka Island experiences, enhancing the comfort in which visitors can experience its offerings in the region. And, in time for Labour Weekend, the company reinstated the popular Auckland to Coromandel ferry service, reconnecting Aucklanders and visitors alike with one of the country’s most stunning coastal destinations. The two-hour scenic cruise will initially run on a limited timetable, with plans to extend as demand grows. William says a large part of Explore Group’s success is the strength of its relationships. “For us, it’s all about partnerships,” he says. “We love it when we can partner with local iwi and tourism operators, and organisations such as Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi, Rotoroa Island Trust and Project Island Song. “Partners who can add value beyond what we are capable of alone, and as a result, we end up with quite an extraordinary experience for our visitors.” William says for the last 25 years, Explore Group has prioritised delivering exceptional experiences to its customers. “It’s important that we deliver unique experiences that are special for people, and our friendly team go above and beyond to deliver that,” he says. “We are so lucky with the destinations that we can go to; it gives people an experience they can’t get anywhere else.” - Four generations of experience - 85 ton x 8.5m wide travel lift - Full service yard Our services include: New builds, Refits, Repairs, Maintenance, Survey work Phone – 09 425 7001 | Email – info@robertsonboats.com | Website – www.robertsonboats.com
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