Kia Ora to Duthie Lidguard Jnr
Duthie Lidgard (Jnr) was recently appointed as a partner and MD of Catalano Shipping Services (CSS) NZ. “I am thrilled to bring this international brand, with so much history and experience in yachting into NZ, particularly at this time when the international spotlight is shining on us”, said Lidgard. “The timing was perfect and we are excited at what we are going to be able to do.” APSA asked Duthie Jr a few questions about how he came into boating and what attracted him to represent AGent by Catalano Group in New Zealand:
1. What’s your background in boating what prepared you for the role of a yacht agent?
I am from a passionate yachting family and I’s a 5th generation boat builder, so it’s in my blood! I went all the way from sailing dinghies as a kid, to a Master 3000GT and Captain of a 44m superyacht by my late 20s. Boating is a huge part of my life and continues to be that way every day.
2. How did you get to be a superyacht agent in New Zealand?
I started a family! I wanted to be shore-based but still involved in the industry and the opportunity to become a partner in the leading agency in NZ at that time (Superyacht Support) jumped up and I took it. Since then we have grown and expanded the business into so many new areas to make NZ a big drawcard for everything from cruising to refits. It has been a blast.
3. What does it mean to establish an Agents By Catalano Branch in New Zealand?
The great thing with big events like Americas Cup is they make everyone step up their game. I wanted to take what we were doing to another level and, in agency, the Agents by Catalano team are the high tide mark. With the success of their Singapore and Indonesia offices well-established, eyes were on the Pacific and NZ in particular. Their systems, their standards and their support represent the future of the business for me. So, with a shared vision of being the biggest and best, we were able to make a deal for them to acquire Superyacht Support NZ and hoist the Catalano Shipping Services NZ flag in the Viaduct. Primed and ready to roll for Americas Cup 2020. What could be better than that?
4. New Zealand is gearing up for the America's Cup and what are going to be the highlights?
The Youth Americas Cup, Prada Cup, the Mastercard Superyacht Regatta, and of course the Americas Cup itself will all be amazing. The fact that the course is near-shore and can be seen from land rather than being all way out in the Hauraki Gulf is a massive draw card. It is going to be one big party in the Viaduct - we can't wait!
5. What is your top superyacht destination in New Zealand?
New Zealand itself! It has everything. Stunning beaches to world-class skiing, hot springs to fjords...take your pick! We are exploring more and more what is possible based on the many different owner focuses. If you want to have fun, you are in the right country. Land, sea and air it is just a magic place and I love being able to showcase it all and make it happen. I've lost count of the amount of 'trip of a lifetime' comments we have got from owners, captains and crew but it is that level we shoot for and that's what gets me out of bed each day. Now it's time to take that to the next level!
www.catalanoshippingasia.com