Levelling Up at Power Equipment
Another successful Dealer training session at the top of the South Island at Seafarer Marine engineerings new premises in Beach Road Waikawa. Sam and the team were great hosts and have a number of Yanmar Engines in the showroom we utilized for training. Overall a great event networking and learning from our Yanmar Guru Jim! Following on from the South Island Dealer training in Picton, Jim migrated north to PE HQ to carry out the North Island training. Once again, another great few days to refresh our skills, networking, and sharing experiences and stories.
Thanks to all involved and we look forward to continuing to up the level and do it all again next year!
– Dave Low, NZ Branch Manager
John Deere: The Power Behind Outward Bound Adventures
Since 1962, Outward Bound New Zealand has been transforming lives from its base in Anakiwa, tucked away in the picturesque Marlborough Sounds. Over 70,000 participants have experienced these life-changing programmes, with the region's mountains, bush, and waterways providing the perfect backdrop for self-reflection and personal growth.
At the heart of Outward Bound's experience is a strong nautical tradition, with on-board boating experiences (and general transportation) playing an important role. To make sure things run smoothly, Outward Bound maintains a fleet of four vessels, all serviced by the Seafarer Marine Engineering Team in nearby Picton.
Seafarer Marine's most recent project involved the re-powering of Outward Bound's vessel, the Kurt Hahn. Sam Neal, Seafarer Marine Systems Engineer, shared insights about the work involved and why John Deere was Outward Bound's engine of choice.
"Outward Bound vessels have relied on John Deere marine engines for many years. When it came time to replace the Kurt Hahn's engine, choosing another John Deere powerplant was an easy decision," said Sam.
The choice to continue with John Deere was based on a number of key factors that fitted with Outward Bound's unique marine requirements.
Outward Bound's vessels don't need to travel at high speeds. Instead, they cruise the protected waters of the Sounds at a more leisurely pace, making John Deere's high capacity, low horsepower output ideal for this type of operation. Safety and dependability are also crucial for Outward Bound, and John Deere's proven track record of reliability was another big tick in the box.
Unlike some commercial-grade engines that can be harsh and noisy, John Deere powerplants also offer a smoother, quieter experience – which is important when you're operating in such pristine surroundings.
"John Deere also has a unique engineering philosophy," Sam added.
"They significantly de-tune their engines. This means an engine capable of 300 horsepower, will run at roughly half that power level. This extends engine life but also improves fuel efficiency, which is just what commercial operators like Outward Bound are after."
Outward Bound's rich history stretches back over six decades, and as it sails into the future, John Deere engines will no doubt continue to play a quiet but key role in powering new adventures.