About Us

Manaaki Marine team

Our proven expertise comes from years of experience working onboard, managing and operating a wide range of vessels from commercial passenger, vehicle ferries, tourism and workboats across New Zealand and the Pacific.

We are passionate about providing the best outcomes for people and businesses within the commercial maritime sector both at sea and ashore.

The free-hand form of our logo takes inspiration from pounamu carvings.

The design is inspired by the combination of the Koru and the natural movement of waves at sea.

The Koru, a spiral shape based on the unfurling fern frond found throughout New Zealand, is a significant symbol in Māori culture, representing new beginnings, growth, strength, and peace.

'Manaaki'

To support, take care of, give hospitality to, protect, look out for- show respect, generosity and care of others.

Our foundations are to protect, empower enable and transform businesses and individuals in the maritime industry, the following principals form the cornerstones of the business:

Barry Nielson

My maritime career began with the Royal New Zealand Navy, where I specialised in Hydrographic Surveying. Since then, I’ve worked aboard cruise ships across the Pacific and held senior leadership roles in New Zealand’s tourism, passenger and workboat sectors – spanning fleet management, compliance, recruitment, and crew development.

In 2022, I founded Manaaki Marine to give back to the industry I’m passionate about – supporting, guiding, and connecting those already in the maritime sector, as well as those aspiring to join it.

About Us

Manaaki Marine team

'Manaaki'

Barry Nielson

Trusted Industry Leaders