The Hall of Fame award was established in 2005 to recognise valuable contributions to the success of The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show and the marine industry of New Zealand.

Dave and Veronica Gibbs, who successfully delivered the show on behalf of the Auckland Water Ski Club for 24 years, were this year’s deserving inductees and will have their names etched on the hallowed plaque on the walls of the Auckland Showgrounds.

XPO consulted with marine associations, former Hall of Fame inductees and key industry stakeholders who believed Dave and Veronica Gibbs were very worthy recipients. Former Hall of Fame Inductee, industry legend and MD of Hutchwilco, Gary Sutton, presented the award to Dave and Veronica’s daughter Jaimee and other family members on the night.

Details given in support of Dave and Veronica’s induction into the Hall of Fame painted a picture of years of dedication to the marine industry, dating back to contributions prior to their appointment as Show Managers. Dave was working as a site manager for Peek Display back in 1990, building stands at the show before he took on a role with Pro Dive, exhibiting at the show through the late ‘90s, until he was then appointed in 1999 as Show Manager for The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show. Veronica worked on the Stabicraft show stand and for Hutchwilco before joining Dave in 2002 to run the show.

Throughout their 24-year tenure as Show Managers, their commitment to supporting the marine industry was a core focus, exemplified by their ethos that the show was a platform to impact, support, and contribute to the marine industry. Through initiatives such as the Boat of the Show awards, they left a legacy of encouraging innovation and excellence.

Industry leaders also touched on Dave and Veronica’s community and charitable contributions. Using the show as a vehicle for fundraising and education, they were the driving force behind auctions for Coastguard, support for LegaSea and other charity partners, and providing space in the show for other marine community and education-based organisations.

Although Dave and Veronica didn’t own the show, they were appointed as Show Managers by the former show owner – Auckland Water Ski Club, they treated it with the passion of two people who did. Their relationships run deep, and they are highly regarded for their years of commitment and dedication to both the show and the industry in general.

Congratulations Dave & Veronica!