Published on: November 6, 2026
Bastion Aotearoa has secured the creative and media mandate for Maritime New Zealand after emerging successful from a competitive pitch process.
The agency’s Wellington-based team will oversee strategy, creative development and media, with a focus on encouraging safer boating practices and creating a positive impact on communities throughout Aotearoa.
Around 1.7 million people participate in recreational boating activities across New Zealand every year, while an average of 17 lives are lost annually. This highlights the ongoing importance of initiatives that encourage safer behaviour and improve safety on the water.
The new partnership will allow Bastion to combine its audience insights, strategic capabilities and creative expertise to address a significant public safety challenge through behaviour-led communication.
“The work that Maritime New Zealand do is a perfect fit for us. It’s a concerted effort to improve the lives of all New Zealanders,” said Bastion Aotearoa managing director Fleur Head.
“The team at Bastion Aotearoa are the behaviour change experts with a proven track record. We’re looking forward to working with them,” said Maritime New Zealand, Senior Advisor Marketing Adrian Stephenson.
Preparations are already in progress, with Bastion Aotearoa working alongside AWE and Dioscuri. The collaboration brings together specialised expertise to develop impactful initiatives in time for the upcoming summer boating season.
The account win also adds to Bastion Aotearoa’s growing presence in Wellington and highlights its integrated approach to connecting strategy, creative and media. Through this model, the agency aims to address complex challenges with communication initiatives that deliver meaningful outcomes.
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