After 30 years owning a marine business, you'd think boating or fishing would be top of the list for Alan Jackson's retirement plans. But alas, years on the tools contributing toward a bad back have
Whangārei's Kamo Outboard owner Alan Jackson retires
Jodi Bryant
Alan Jackson with Sharyn Thomas (background) are handing Kamo Outboard over to Kane Storey.
This week he hands the business over to Kane Storey, who he described as "very capable".
Storey, 28, is a local with seven years' experience, running his own business for the past year. While not so into boating himself, he usually owns multiple vessels to tinker with and upgrade before selling. However, after hitting the ground running at the busy business, he admits this will likely take a back seat.
"It's been crazy-busy," he laughed.
Jackson and Storey have been carrying out a handover period over recent weeks before Jackson steps back and, while wishing the new owner well, he had no qualms of his ability.
"I hope he makes a go of it like I did. He's actually pretty cluey, he's going to be pretty good.
"I have confidence in him taking over the business. I don't see any reason why he won't succeed big time," he said, adding that he had learnt things himself from Storey over the past week.
In lieu of boating and overseas travel, Jackson and Thomas plan to travel New Zealand and to the Cook Islands, as well as more biking and trail walking, with Thomas adding that Jackson's passion for tinkering with motors will likely continue.