RAGLAN

• NZRAG
• Latitude: -37.7945
• Longitude: 174.88
• South Pacific
• Marina in New Zealand

Location: New Zealand

Raglan is a small coastal town located on the western coast of New Zealand's North Island. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Raglan is not only a popular destination for surfers but also functions as a port, though in a limited capacity compared to larger commercial ports in New Zealand. Key particulars and description related to Raglan as a marine port are as follows:

General Overview:

• Location: Raglan, Waikato Region, North Island, New Zealand.
• Coordinates: Approximately 37°48' S latitude and 174°53' E longitude.
• Body of Water: Situated on the west coast facing the Tasman Sea; features an estuary that connects to the sea through the Raglan Harbour.

Infrastructure:

• Harbour: Raglan Harbour is a natural harbor with a mix of estuarine and marine environments. It serves primarily recreational and small-scale commercial purposes.
• Wharves/Piers: There are several small wharves and piers in Raglan, primarily catering to fishing boats, pleasure craft, and small tour boats.
• Marinas: Small-scale marina facilities accommodating private yachts and recreational vessels.
• Navigational Aids: Basic navigational aids such as buoys and beacons are in place to assist vessels in navigating the harbor entrance and estuarine channels.

Port Usage:

• Recreational Boating: Raglan is popular for recreational boating activities including yachting, fishing, and kayaking.
• Fishing: Local commercial and recreational fishing is a significant activity, with fish species including snapper, kingfish, and kaimoana (seafood traditionally gathered by Māori).
• Surfboarding: Renowned for having some of the best surf breaks in New Zealand, including the famous point break at Manu Bay.
• Tourism: The town and port area cater to tourism, with tour operators offering boat trips for sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and cultural tours.

Environmental Considerations:

• Protected Areas: Raglan Harbour has areas of ecological significance, including estuarine wetlands and marine reserves. Environmental protection measures are in place to preserve biodiversity.
• Sedimentation: Natural sedimentation processes affect navigation and may occasionally require dredging to maintain channel depth.

Facilities and Services:

• Maritime Services: Limited facilities including fuel services, boat repair, and maintenance services are available.
• Emergency Services: Coastguard services operate in the area to provide maritime search and rescue.
• Amenities: Nearby town amenities include restaurants, accommodation, and retail stores catering to tourists and residents.

Access and Transportation:

• Road Access: Raglan is accessible by road, approximately a 45-minute drive from the city of Hamilton.
• Public Transport: Limited public transport options are available, primarily serving local and regional needs.

Economic and Cultural Aspects:

• Local Economy: The port and its activities contribute to the local economy predominantly through tourism, fishing, and recreational sectors.
• Cultural Significance: The area holds cultural significance for Māori iwi (tribes), and traditional practices and sites are respected and preserved.

In summary, Raglan's marine port is modest in scale, focusing on recreational and small-scale commercial activities, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and cultural heritage.