text: Getting into a boat with Skipperi - The Fishing Website
  Getting Kiwi boaties out on the water has now become even safer and easier; with shared-use boating service 'Skipperi' launching into New Zealand.
  Originally established in Finland in 2017 with now 300 boats in service throughout Scandinavia, Skipperi will launch into Auckland on June 1 with a fleet of fifteen Haines Hunter SF545 boats, each powered with a Yamaha 115hp four-stroke outboard.
  The concept is a first for New Zealand; with Skipperi asking the boating public which boat brand they would trust when venturing out on the water. After extensive market research, the Haines Hunter/Yamaha packages were chosen for the first Skipperi location in Westhaven, Auckland.
  "According to our feedback, the Haines Hunter SF545 is the perfect match for our users to explore the Hauraki Gulf, a brand that Kiwi boaties trust," says Skipperi New Zealand CEO, Alexander Rosenthal.
  "Kiwi's love the outdoors, and they love boating. We're excited to launch the Skipperi platform into New Zealand.
  "The response so far has been exceptional, and we already have the first handful of boats fully subscribed. The rest of the boats will roll out over the coming months, with the full fleet of fifteen boats on the water by the start of summer.
  "Skipperi is perfect for all boaters, who might not have the time or might not have the means to own a boat outright themselves. It's a cost effective and easy to use system so that you can get out on the water.
  Booking a boat is easy, with access to the dock as well the boat keys all done through the Skipperi app. Once the day's boating is complete, users simply refuel the boat, replacing what they have used, so the boat is full for the next day's adventure.
  "Approximately 20% of Skipperi boaters are beginners, and we at Skipperi want to make our service an easy and safe way for you to experience your boating hobby."
  With assistance from Auckland council agency, Panuku Development - the Skipperi Auckland fleet will operate out of Z Pier in Westhaven Marina, with Skipperi NZ looking to expand the operation into other centres around New Zealand. www.skipperi.nz