The Chandlery, Russell-based premium marine and outdoor gear provider, is proud to announce the official return of Henri Lloyd, one of the world’s most iconic and trusted sailing apparel brands, to New Zealand shores.
Through a new partnership with Henri Lloyd Australia, exclusive dealer of the brand for Australia and New Zealand, The Chandlery has become the first reseller of the renowned brand in New Zealand, a move that perfectly aligns with The Chandlery’s commitment to providing high-quality gear that sailors and adventurers can rely on.
After being absent from the New Zealand market for some time, Henri Lloyd – a brand trusted by sailors for over 60 years – makes its long-awaited return. Known for its groundbreaking innovations in sailing gear, Henri Lloyd’s reputation is built on quality, durability, and performance.
“It’s not just the high-profile areas of the sport that have built such a special reputation for the brand, ask anyone who was wearing Henri-Lloyd gear back in that era and they’ll have a story to tell about a favourite item of clothing, why it was special and what they achieved wearing it. Some are even still using the same items!” Quote from offshore sailor and former Volvo Ocean Race CEO and now Executive Chairman of Henri-Lloyd, Knut Frostad.
Henri Lloyd’s gear stands out for its use of Bri-Nylon, anti-corrosion nylon zippers, Velcro closures, and, most notably, the introduction of Gore-Tex waterproofing, a game-changing material that was tested for over 22,000 hours at sea before its launch. This dedication to creating reliable gear perfectly mirrors the values that The Chandlery holds dear.
Warren’s Perspective: A Perfect Fit for The Chandlery
Warren, CEO of The Chandlery and Swell Marine, is excited about what Henri Lloyd brings to his customers.
“New Zealand, when it comes to sailing, is a place that can throw all sorts of conditions at you very quickly. You need gear that keeps you comfortable in both a 30-degree day on deck with a light, warm breeze and in conditions where it’s blowing 35 to 40 knots, freezing, and wet. You need gear that can handle both extremes while keeping you comfortable. Henri Lloyd has the style and quality to do just that.”
Warren has an extensive history of coastal and offshore boat movements, whether by sail, power, or anything else, and it has involved spending a lot of time in pretty adverse conditions – especially in places like Southern Australia, Bass Strait, and the Tasman Sea.
He says: “My Henri Lloyd gear was my go-to for those conditions because of its comfort, warmth, and the fact that you could trust it 100%. I’ve owned other, more expensive gear, but it hasn’t lasted as long as my Henri Lloyd has. I’m passionate about equipment that does the job properly, keeps you comfortable, and is reliable and durable. On top of that, I’m happy to wear my Henri Lloyd gear not only as sailing gear but also out to a nice restaurant, the yacht clubs, or any social event – what a mix! That’s why I’m passionate about it.”
He adds:
“My vision for The Chandlery is to offer equipment and gear that I would use myself. I believe in gear that I can trust in the worst possible conditions. I’ve been in those situations where gear doesn’t work, and when that happens, it either makes things extremely uncomfortable, increases stress levels, or in the worst-case scenario, it can cost lives – yours or others’. That’s why I want a shop that supplies only the best gear. And not just sailing gear, but equipment for everything.”
This philosophy is central to why The Chandlery became the first Henri Lloyd reseller in New Zealand. Henri Lloyd Australia initially planned to reintroduce the brand to New Zealand next year, but when Warren’s passion for the brand became clear, the process was fast-tracked, allowing The Chandlery to be the first to stock the gear that Warren has long relied on during his extensive marine career.
Kim, Business Manager at Henri Lloyd Australia, shares:
“It’s early days as we are just re-launching back into New Zealand, but in Australia where we re-launched earlier this year, the response has been very positive to see it back and available again – and standout comments have been around the obvious quality, look and style and how light the wet weather gear is.”
Introducing Henri Lloyd at The Chandlery
From Gore-Tex jackets to Smart Therm mid-layers, the wide range of Henri Lloyd gear is now available at The Chandlery in Russell, Bay of Islands, as well as through our online store www.thechandlery.co.nz. If it’s not on the shelf, The Chandlery will order it in – making sure sailors and adventurers across New Zealand can access the high-quality gear they need.
Henri Lloyd’s gear is not just for the experienced sailor. As Warren explains, it’s for anyone who values performance and comfort:
“Even their lightweight jackets have a 10,000mm dry rating, meaning in most conditions, that one light jacket will keep you dry. You can always scale up or down depending on what you’re doing, but for most bay and coastal sailing, their light gear not only looks stylish but also keeps you completely comfortable.”
Special Events and Promotions:
To celebrate the official reintroduction of Henri Lloyd to New Zealand, The Chandlery will be hosting a series of events throughout October, including pop-up shops and a product feedback event during Labour Weekend in Russell. Customers can expect exclusive promotions, giveaways, and the opportunity to experience Henri Lloyd gear firsthand.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Evita Zarina
The Chandlery
Email: sales@thechandlery.co.nz
Phone: 027 562 7955
About The Chandlery:
Located in Russell, Bay of Islands, The Chandlery is committed to providing top-quality marine gear and accessories for sailors and adventurers alike. We are proud to offer premium brands such as Henri Lloyd, Garmin, Simrad, Victron, EcoFlow and others, ensuring our customers have access to the best gear for their on-water and off-shore adventures. Visit us in-store or online at www.thechandlery.co.nz.