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Pleasure boat insurer Club Marine has announced a major "re-launch" in New Zealand, complete with new general manager and a substantial upgrade of its services and network.
Australasia's largest pleasure boat insurer for a considerable time, Club Marine has been in the New Zealand market for more than 20 years.
In recent years, they have kept a relatively low profile, however, that appears about to change.
New branch manager, Craig Garmston, says the insurer has embarked on a major ramp-up of its activities in New Zealand, beginning with his appointment.
Garmston has considerable experience in the marine insurance field and has worked in business development roles in both the Victorian and Queensland Club Marine offices for several years.
Describing himself as an "avid boatie and sailor", Garmston says he is looking forward to "experiencing the fantastic Kiwi boating lifestyle, particularly on Auckland's picturesque Waitemata Harbour".
In addition to Garmston's appointment, Club Marine is also offering a direct, discounted, online service through its newly launched New Zealand-dedicated website: www.clubmarine.co.nz.
Garmston says other benefits of the Club Marine's Kiwi upgrade include "generous limits" for fishing and diving gear, tools and personal effects; the owner's choice of repairer in the event of a claim; free transit cover for trailerable boats and PWCs; up to $10 million legal liability to third parties and a choice between Agreed or Market Value policies.
The company is also introducing a "Lay-up Discount", offering a 5 per cent saving for every month the boat is not used (up to a maximum of 60 per cent).
They are also offering an additional 5 per cent saving for those who buy or renew their policy online.
As part of its New Zealand expansion, Club Marine is also offering an additional incentive to those who get a policy quote before the end of May.
They will go into the draw to win a Sea-Doo GTI SE package, valued at more than $21,000. To qualify, boaties need to seek the quote before close of business on Friday, May 30. They can do this online, by phoning 0800 11 CLUB (2582) or by visiting the Club Marine stand at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show in May.