Oborn's Nautical

04/08/2026

This year marks a milestone we're incredibly proud of – 60 years in business.

Back in 1966, Ted Oborn founded Oborn's Nautical Supplies with a passion for helping Canterbury's boating community. Things were a little different then. New Zealand still used pounds, shillings and pence, sourcing quality marine gear wasn't as simple as jumping online, and reliable advice came from years of hands-on experience rather than a quick internet search.

The business built on quality workmanship, honest advice and looking after every customer. Those values were carried on by his son Grant, and his grandson Matt, we're proud to continue that legacy while growing into both the marine and architectural bracing industries.

Over the last six decades we've seen enormous changes in boats, materials, technology and the way we do business, but one thing has never changed – our commitment to providing the right solution and backing it up with the knowledge and service our customers have come to expect.

A big thank you to Business South for featuring our story in their August edition. If you'd like to have a read here:

https://digitalpublications.online/waterfordpress/business-south-august-26/48/

Celebrating 60 years in business, Oborn's Nautical has built a strong reputation through three generations of family ownership, specialist marine expertise, and a commitment to outstanding customer service. From its Christchurch roots, the company has evolved alongside the industry while continuing to support sailors and marine professionals across New Zealand.

Today, Oborn’s Nautical supplies specialist rigging, marine equipment, and engineered solutions, with its practical knowledge and adaptability helping the business remain a trusted name after six decades.

Full story👇

30/07/2026

A year ago, we were part of bringing this incredible sculpture to life.
Standing 18m high above The Morgans Art Park, Cumulus by renowned New Zealand sculptor Neil Dawson is one of those installations that stops you in your tracks.

We were proud to supply the 8 × 16mm Ronstan stainless steel cable assemblies and assist with the er****on of this impressive artwork.

A big shout out to our good mates at SRS Group NZ Ltd, who helped manufacture the cable assemblies to ensure everything was spot on for installation.

A year on, it's fantastic to look back at a project that showcases what's possible when engineering, craftsmanship, and art come together with marine rigging solutions.

Check out this footage - https://themorgans.co.nz/sculptures/cumulus

Head in the Clouds?

https://themorgans.co.nz/art-park

22/07/2026

Keelboat spinnaker pole refit in action! We’ve custom-fitted these Ronstan trigger ends, thanks to the precise isolation bushes from Source That. Now they’re snug as can be in the carbon pole!

16/07/2026

🐋 We've had another one of those "I've got an interesting request..." jobs come through the door this week!

This time, the team from Project Jonah dropped off something a little different... a life-sized, 12-metre long inflatable humpback whale!

Our job was to replace a 2.5m long zip in it's side, which allows you to climb in and check out the internals of these big animals.

The Walkthrough Whale education session gives children the incredible opportunity to step inside a life-sized humpback whale, where they can learn about whale biology, discover what makes these gentle giants so unique, and truly appreciate the enormous scale of these amazing marine mammals.

We love the variety of work that comes through our doors. One day it's yacht rigging or architectural cables, the next it's helping prepare a giant whale for its next educational tour!

Check out their website for more info https://www.projectjonah.org.nz/walkthrough-whale/

Project Jonah New Zealand

14/06/2026

A fresh batch of Ronstan safety rail cars heading out for a local pilot boat rail system.

Manufactured from marine-grade 316 stainless steel, these heavy-duty rail cars are built to keep crews safely on board in some of the toughest operating conditions. Designed specifically for fall protection applications, each car features a large lanyard attachment point, providing a secure and reliable connection when it matters most. Match these cars with the I beam track you recognised from the sailing hardware range.

Engineered for strength, durability, and smooth operation, these systems are trusted in demanding marine environments where safety is paramount.

Ronstan Sailing

10/06/2026

Nothing beats a Christchurch bluebird day☀️ to show off the new cladding on our shopfront. We are really pleased with how it came up and the fresh new look it’s given the building. If you’re in the area swing past and check it out for yourself 

17/03/2026

A good customer popped in to pick up some rope splicing tools, he mentioned they are expecting a second child soon and reckons he’ll have plenty of spare time on his hands to finally get into a bit of splicing….
Good luck with all that spare time! 😂

16/01/2026

Nice to know we’re getting it right. Thanks to everyone who’s taken the time to post a review!

05/01/2026

A wander along the beach with the family and found a well-used Laser, with an ancient Oborn’s Code Flag sticker — easily 30+ years old, from back in the Riccarton era.

If yours looks the same, updated replacements are available at obornsnautical.co.nz