Napier’s Senator Boats has been named the Best Emerging Exporter at the recent Hawke’s Bay Export Awards.
Senator claimed the award given their recent growth in the Australian market which identified by the judges was the result of strong partnerships and brand recognition. With 12 dealers in New Zealand, Senator has established a growing network of three dealers in Australia (W.A, S.A, VIC) with a fourth shortly to be appointed in NSW. Add to that there is also a dealer in New Caledonia.
35 boats, mostly larger hardtop models have been sent across the Tasman, the first shipment leaving the Napier factory in August 2020.
“Like a lot of manufacturers in New Zealand, we've faced stern challenges over the last three years, disruptions caused by the likes of the Covid-19, Cyclone Gabrielle, and major supply chain constraints – but it is pleasing to be recognised for our continual growth and expansion into new markets,” says Senator Boats Managing Director, Grant Simmonds.
“Establishing a dealer network in Australia has been an important step for the growth of the brand. We’ve been strategic in appointing our dealers, securing strong partnerships, and with that sales have been strong.”
Like in New Zealand, Simmonds says that the Senator range has been well received by the Australian market, with buyers appreciating the inherent design and safety characteristics of a Senator.
“Our boats are adept to New Zealand and Australian sea conditions with higher cabins, stable hulls & decks are spacious and favour those who want plenty of workspace for fishing.
What’s more, due to their variable deadrise design – Senator hulls are soft riding.”
Fitted as an option, Senator uses closed-cell foam blocks shaped and inserted into the chambers during the manufacturing process. As well as safety benefits, foam filled chambers result in an amazingly quiet ride.
“With all the safety and performance characteristics coming as standard, each Senator Boat can be tailored to the customer’s needs through extensive design options this means the boat owner can get the boat they really want.”
“Most notably what we’re being recognised for is sheer volume. It's simple – more boat, means better value.”
Senator Boats also recently won the prestigious award for the best specialist fishing boat under 6 meters at the Hutchwilco Auckland Boat Show May 2023.
“The new 500 model launched at the New Zealand Boat Show this year has started extremely well and we see demand for this boat increasing over time.”
“Our 620/650 has been our highest selling model over last few years, as too has been our 690 models – which have been very popular in the Australian market.”
Senator currently has a cuddy version of the 500 model, due for release at the 2024 Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show.
