News

Sailing into Opua was a nostalgic occasion for Norwegian cruisers Oystein and Hege Huse after a memorable journey across the Pacific.

Having departed Europe in their Bavaria 45 “Ghost” in July 2016, reaching New Zealand was a special moment.

“For us Norwegians, sailing into Opua was like seeing our own coastline appear from the mist. After docking into the marina we felt very at home, and will always remember you Kiwis as a very welcoming people,” Oystein recalls.

With the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean, and the Panama Canal in their wake, they had many a story to tell.

“We loved Galapogas for the animal life. Marquesas for the scenery. Tuamotos for the sharks. Borarbora for the yacht club. Niue for the diving. Tonga for the snorkelling and caves. Minverva for the lobsters,” he explains.

But he says the best marina haulout, atmosphere, and service, was saved till last. 

Arriving in Opua marked the end of their cruising chapter and it was time to return to the Northern Hemisphere, so Oystein enlisted 36 Degrees Brokers to sell their yacht.  

“We felt well taken care of during the whole process, and were impressed at how proactive the company was. They guided viewers our way instead of just listing and waiting for clicks,” he explains. 

They spent the summer between the Bay of Islands and Auckland, and a buyer for their boat was found within a month of reaching Auckland and using 36 Degrees sales dock.

Oystein and Hege’s story is not dissimilar to many cruisers who reach New Zealand’s shores, and the team at 36 Degrees strive to provide a warm welcome.   

“Cruisers are able to access all our services from their arrival into the Bay of Islands and receive continual support throughout their journey,” explains director Conrad Gair.

One of the drawcards to listing with 36 Degrees from their Opua branch is the idyllic Bay of Islands backdrop for marketing photoshoots.

“We pride ourselves on giving your vessel the best possible chance to shine, using professional photographers and a broad range of marketing platforms. Although we work hard to capture each feature of your boat, it also helps to have beautiful surroundings,” he explains.

Clients are given another base in Auckland if they wish, and offered use of the Sales Dock in Westhaven, which is another opportunity for great exposure.

“At the end of the day, we’re just trying to give you the best value for money and a positive experience with our team. We thrive on maintaining relationships with our clients and acting on integrity and reliability, and our clients’ experiences speak for themselves.”

A friendly face to greet you

36 Degrees Brokers director Conrad Gair opened the Opua office in 2016. A friendly face to greet you on arrival into Opua is one of his team brokers Robbs Hielkema; a keen boatie who is always happy to sit down and discuss your needs. The office is located on the Wharf in Opua and can be sighted on arrival into the harbour. For more information visit www.36degrees.co.nz.

Call the team on +649 903 1001 or Robbs directly: +6421858897