ABOUT US

Charting Maritime
Excellence


NZMTA Navigates Your Success


WE ARE SPECIALISTS


Marine Transport Association


MTA was formed in 1970 to represent the owners of New Zealand tourism charter and passenger vessels. Large and small operators make up the membership and are active in harbour cruises, fishing, sailing, passenger transport and aquaculture.

As an Incorporated Society, the MTA board is made up of owners and operators, representing many fleet operators, seafarers and service providers throughout the country.

Funding for the Association comes principally from subscriptions and sponsorship. Our key objective is to advocate and support owners to ensure a safe and thriving industry, offering a unique maritime experience to the domestic and international community.

Our Sponsors

With over 50 years of experience in the industry, the Association is able to offer a range of benefits and guidance on the following:

  • Tourism industry initiatives
  • Covid-19 recovery advocacy
  • MOSS (Marine Operators Safety Systems)
  • America's Cup for commercial tourism and charter vessels
  • Health and Safety at Work Act
  • Advocacy and representation of owners interests across various government portfolios
  • Subscription to Professional Skipper & NZ Aquaculture magazine
  • NZMTA Industry news
  • Technical expertise – Maritime and marine protection rules and regulations
  • Guidance on International conventions, MARPOL and the Maritime Labour Convention
  • Seafarer licensing and transition of international qualifications
  • Co-operative trade relationships
  • Codes of Practice for High Speed Craft, Swimming with Marine Mammals, Shark Cage Operations and Parasailing
  • The Public Passenger Transport Management Bill
  • Exemptions
  • Liquor Licensing requirements
  • Charter Boat Catch Reporting
  • Representing the membership on the Maritime Industry Recovery Forum

The NZ Marine Transport Association Vision


  • To promote and advance the interests and welfare of all members.
  • To provide input and affect the direction of central and local government policy and actions in accordance with the wishes of Members and the vision of the Association.
  • To represent the interests of Members at all public forums and in public issues as they arise.
  • To provide the information, services and products which will assist Members to meet their business goals.
  • To maintain regular and close contact and communication with Members to listen to and understand their views and aspirations.
  • To improve the public's understanding of the importance of the marine transportation industry to the nation and promote the professionalism, hospitality and efficiency of Members in the eyes of the wider community.
  • The organisation is made up of members who represent the majority of fleet operators throughout the country and range from Work boats, Ferries both passenger and vehicular, Charter boats, Tug and Barge operators, Fishing boats and Aquaculture vessels.