36 | WATERLINE December 2025 FROM EARLY DAYS TO INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP Originally from Liverpool, UK, Mike discovered his love of boating in the Scottish islands. After earning his skipper’s ticket, he spent time teaching sailing in the Mediterranean before becoming Dockmaster at Hamble Point Marina in the UK. His international experience grew further when he and his wife managed a private superyacht between Miami and Newport, USA. In 2008, they relocated to New Zealand to raise a family, where Mike managed the boatyard at Hobsonville Marina before joining Gulf Harbour Marina. Over 11 years at Gulf Harbour, Mike worked across almost every marina role, including four years as Marina Manager. Mike then took a sidestep into his current position, Marinas Asset Management at Auckland City Council, driving the strategic planning and development of Auckland Council’s three marinas and commercial wharves. WHY CERTIFICATION MATTERS “I see the CMM accreditation as a symbol of dedication to our industry,” Mike explains. “It shows you’ve reached a certain benchmark and have the experience to be a valuable contributor.” Though newly certified, Mike has already built meaningful connections and gained valuable insights from fellow marina professionals across Australasia. ADVICE TO THE NEXT GENERATION “Experience as many roles as possible,” Mike advises. “Innovation thrives when you understand how every part of a marina works. Don’t be afraid to challenge convention, our industry rewards fresh thinking.” BUILDING LIFELONG CONNECTIONS Mike values the camaraderie and collaboration that define the marina community. “The group of people who are passionate about what we do in this industry is incredibly special,” he says. “Through the NZ Marina Operators Association and the Marina Industries Association, I’ve found a source of knowledge, reassurance and capability” He adds, “Our industry stands out for its willingness to collaborate, even among competitors. I’ve seen marinas rally around others in need in ways you’d never see elsewhere – this is because we have strong associations that bring us together” OUTSIDE THE OFFICE When not managing marinas, Mike enjoys woodworking - creating furniture, lamps, and chessboards - and spending time kayaking or cycling with his wife and two children. WHAT I LOVE ABOUT MARINA LIFE “Messing around with boats, of course! Any day spent catching a mooring line or towing a boat is a good one. Helping drive real improvement across Auckland’s waterfront makes it even better.” MIKE KEOWN CMM MARINAS ASSET MANAGEMENT, AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL The Marina Industries Association (MIA) recognises Certified Marina Operators, Managers and Professionals who are committed and experienced industry professionals, globally recognised through the Global Marina Institute (GMI) for their extensive experience and demonstrated knowledge and who have completed the Intermediate and Advanced Marina Management training programs. There are over 500 Certified Members accredited globally through the GMI and endorsed by ICOMIA - the International Council of Marine Industry Associations and as such open opportunities to work in the industry in all parts of the world. MARINA TRAINING INSTITUTE LOCATION: Auckland, New Zealand YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY: 20+ CERTIFIED SINCE: April 2025 STANDOUT ACHIEVEMENT: Leading award-winning marina operations and managing Auckland’s portfolio of world-class marinas. CAREER MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Mike has achieved a string of professional highlights, including: • Fulfilling his early dream of becoming a professional skipper. • Leading Gulf Harbour Marina to win NZ Marina of the Year and Boatyard of the Year. • Driving innovation to exceed revenue targets through new ideas and efficiency. • Managing a portfolio that includes three premier marinas, two commercial wharves, and a lifting bridge — the largest collective of its kind in the southern hemisphere. “Being recognised as a Certified Marina Manager is a real career highlight.”
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