Our Story
Innovation, resilience & success for over five decades.
The story of Boatgear is one of innovation, resilience, and success. In fact, it is one of the most enduring success stories in New Zealand's marine industry.
Our journey began in 1973 when Ted Nobbs founded Tenob, a company that would become synonymous with quality marine products throughout New Zealand and beyond. One of Tenob's earliest innovations was the now iconic Tenob Rise & Fall Outboard Bracket. Nearly 50 years later, the outboard bracket range remains largely unchanged from the original design, a testament to its quality, reliability, and enduring performance.
Over the years, Tenob expanded its range of New Zealand-manufactured marine products to include bailers, battery boxes, cleats, deadeyes, nylon covers, vents, and the game-changing Big Bung. Today, Tenob products are sold worldwide and are trusted by virtually every New Zealand boatbuilder, remaining as popular and dependable as they were when first introduced.
In 2014, Marine Direct, a leading marine distributor established in 1997, recognised the opportunity to build on Tenob's strong reputation and acquired the business. The combination of manufacturing expertise and distribution capability created a powerful force within the marine industry. Over the following decade, the business experienced significant growth, expanding its product offering and developing agency partnerships with respected international brands.
While importing and distributing high-quality marine products remains a major part of the business, including OEM supply to boatbuilders throughout New Zealand, manufacturing has continued to flourish. The introduction of the Tenob Tuff brand further reinforced the company's commitment to producing durable, high-quality products which have led the market for over five decades.
Under the leadership of Danny Bassi, the business has continued to thrive. Since taking ownership, the company has relocated to larger premises, substantially increased sales, expanded the product range, and secured numerous new agency partnerships.
In 2025, the company rebranded as Boatgear Marine Wholesale, marking a new chapter in its evolution. The name better represents the scale, scope, and future direction of the business, which now serves both professional marine sectors and recreational boating enthusiasts with a comprehensive range of high-quality equipment.
“To deliver exceptional customer service, expertise and premium marine products that ensure the best for our customers.”
At the heart of Boatgear is a commitment to family values, exceptional customer service, and long-term relationships. Looking after staff, customers, and suppliers is central to everything we do.
People first
Family values and long-term relationships with staff, customers and suppliers.
Trusted partnerships
Strong supplier relationships mean competitive pricing, reliable stock and the industry's best products.
Expert advice
A dedicated, knowledgeable team providing advice and service our customers can rely on.
A key supplier to New Zealand's marine industry.
Boatgear's robust manufacturing and distribution model positions it as a key supplier to OEM boat builders, marine retailers, and large retail chains across New Zealand and the surrounding islands. International suppliers benefit from Boatgear's established market presence, reliable logistics, and dedicated sales support.
Boatgear through the years
From a single outboard bracket in 1973 to one of New Zealand's most influential marine distributors.
Tenob is founded
Ted Nobbs establishes Tenob and begins manufacturing marine products in New Zealand. The original Tenob Rise & Fall Outboard Bracket is developed and quickly gains industry recognition.
Product range expands
Tenob grows its range of quality New Zealand-made products to include bailers, battery boxes, cleats, deadeyes, nylon covers, vents and other essential marine hardware, becoming a trusted supplier to boatbuilders nationwide.
Marine Direct established
Danny Bassi co-founds the business as a specialist marine distributor, building strong relationships with leading international marine brands.
Full ownership
Danny Bassi acquires full ownership of Marine Direct, growing the staff and product range considerably while establishing an excellent reputation with customers and suppliers.
Marine Direct acquires Tenob
Recognising the strength of the Tenob brand and its manufacturing capability, Marine Direct makes headlines by purchasing Tenob Wholesale Marine, creating one of the most influential marine distribution entities in New Zealand.
Scaling up
The combined strength of both businesses enables the company to scale operations, expand its reach and enhance value for international partners.
Rapid growth & expansion
The company moves into a facility nearly four times larger than its original site, allowing increased inventory capacity and the onboarding of globally recognised brands.
Resilience through change
Despite global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the company demonstrates resilience and adaptability, continuing to grow and launching a refreshed website and Trade Store.
Growing the team
The sales team expands with seasoned professionals bringing deep industry expertise, leading to a broader product range and new agency partnerships.
Tenob Tuff brand launch
The manufacturing division expands with the creation of the Tenob Tuff trademarked brandline, showcasing durable, high-quality marine products.
Marine Direct becomes Boatgear
To better reflect the company's extensive product range, manufacturing expertise and industry leadership, the business is rebranded as Boatgear Marine Wholesale.
Leading the future
As Boatgear enters its sixth decade, the company is actively pursuing new growth opportunities, strategic acquisitions and product diversification, ensuring long-term success and continued excellence in marine supply.
Serving the marine community for generations to come.
As Boatgear enters its sixth decade in New Zealand's marine industry, Danny and Taniya Bassi look forward to building on the company's proud heritage while continuing to innovate, grow, and serve the marine community.