ONETenders, a family-owned builder based at Marsden Cove in New Zealand, has started discussions with international dealers after three years developing a range of carbon-fibre rigid tenders. Founders Grant and Emma Nelson are targeting partners able to provide service and develop the brand locally rather than appointing distributors simply to expand the number of countries represented.
The company's initial collection spans three compact hulls from 3.5 to 4.2 metres, with configurations intended for both yacht-tender work and independent leisure use. All three fall clearly within Leisure Boat Guide's under-12m coverage.
A lightweight monohull and two catamarans
The M35 is a 3.5m monohull with a quoted base weight of around 45kg and a maximum rating of 15hp. Its lightweight construction is intended to reduce the loads involved in lifting, handling and storing a tender.
The C-Series offers two catamarans: the 3.5m C35 is quoted at approximately 70kg and up to 15hp, while the larger 4.2m C42 weighs around 120kg and is rated for up to 40hp. ONETenders says the C42 can seat five or six people, with the twin-hull design prioritising stability and usable deck area.
Flexible use and propulsion choices
The builder uses autoclaved prepreg carbon-fibre construction throughout the range, aiming for strong, stiff hulls at lower weight. Buyers can specify varied seating, console and open-deck arrangements depending on whether the craft will be used for transfers, diving, fishing or watersports.
ONETenders offers petrol-outboard and electric propulsion configurations instead of committing every hull to one power system. The company says versatility across a limited number of platforms is part of its strategy, although individual configuration and performance data should be confirmed for each order.
A deliberate move toward international sales
The Nelsons report spending approximately three years refining the hulls and manufacturing approach before actively seeking wider distribution. Their stated preference is for dealers with existing relationships in the premium recreational or yacht-tender markets and a credible aftersales capability.
The expansion is worth monitoring because it connects a relatively small New Zealand manufacturer with the worldwide market for lightweight tenders. The key next milestones will be named dealership appointments and confirmed customer deliveries, rather than assuming that discussions alone mean a global network is operating.