Clubs invited to submit expressions of interest as Yachting New Zealand launches 12-month hospitality support pilot programme

Alongside the review of its membership model and related services announced last month, Yachting New Zealand plans to run a 12-month pilot in collaboration with Hospitality New Zealand, giving a cohort of clubs access to their expertise, support, and resources.

This partnership follows feedback from several clubs seeking to grow or refine their hospitality offerings, or to gain guidance on how to leverage their club as a hospitality venue.

"We are seeking expressions of interest from up to eight clubs to join this pilot," said Yachting New Zealand Chief Executive Steve Armitage. "If the pilot proves successful, we will explore how this collaboration could be incorporated into our broader membership offering in the future."

Participating clubs will gain practical advice, access to Hospitality New Zealand’s training platform and resources, licensing guidance and support, and regular engagement with their regional managers.

Clubs interested in participating should contact their local Yachting New Zealand Regional Development Manager by 5 pm on Monday, 20 April 2026. As part of the expression of interest, please provide an overview of your current hospitality operations — for example, whether you run a licensed bar or café, operate a venue for hire, or have plans to expand revenue-generating activities.

Armitage will select clubs for the pilot, ensuring a regional spread and alignment with Hospitality New Zealand’s offerings. 

Selected clubs will be notified by Friday, 24 April 2026.