Incredible and very humbling words from Jack Vitek, Editor-in-Chief of Marlin Magazine in the latest issue!
“These guys are building fishing weapons—sleek, high-performance custom sport-fishers under the NorthCape brand with the rare ability to reverse at 10-plus knots. They’re aiming to fill the niche G&S left behind, and having fished both builds, I can confidently say that the baton has been passed.”
A couple of months ago, we had the absolute pleasure of hosting Jack here in New Zealand. He jumped aboard the NorthCape Custom 43 with Capt John Batterton, legend light tackle angler Gary Carter along and pro decky Brad Fergus, targeting swords on 8- and 12-pound mono and casting flies to stripeys on 8-pound tippet.
Even though the weather didn’t quite play ball, the trip was one to remember, and this article of Jack’s captures the spirit of New Zealand’s sportfishing scene perfectly.
Sometimes it’s easy to forget how lucky we are, with world-class fishing clubs up and down the coast and a passionate fishing culture that’s second to none! Not to mention an incredible organisation behind it all New Zealand Sport Fishing Council Inc
With a packed pipeline of high-end projects, we’re on the hunt for an experienced marine painter/fairer to join our exceptional team
We build world-class custom sportfishing vessels with an uncompromising commitment to quality and we need someone who takes just as much pride in their craft. Our boats are finished to an immaculate standard, and your work will be a key part of delivering that flawless finish.
What we’re looking for:
- Proven experience in marine painting and fairing
- Attention to detail and a passion for perfection
- A strong work ethic and commitment to quality workmanship
Why join us?
- Be part of a team building some of the most respected custom boats on the water
- Work in a supportive, skilled environment where your work truly matters
- Long pipeline of exciting upcoming builds
Sound like you? Apply now by sending your CV and a brief summary of your experience to info@bluefixboatworks.co.nz, or phone 09 4026814 or send us a PM! We look forward to hearing from you!! Please share if you know anyone who might be interested! ... See MoreSee Less
Another great day for the ladies on Rowe'De'O in the light tackle Totalspan International Yellowtail tournament. Faith, Jo and Charlotte providing the goods on a challenging New Zealand winters day! Thanks to Brad and Logan for dealing with these ladies, we know it can be a tough task 👌 This tournament has been running for 55 years. 55 years of rod-bending, fish-fighting madness, all thanks to the absolute legends at the Bay of Islands Swordfish Club (Inc) You guys are the real MVPs! 🙌❤️ ... See MoreSee Less
Day Two Highlights from the Kings Birthday Weekend 6kg Light Tackle Tournaments!
The Bluefix crew made up of Brad, Charlie, Kurt, Cody and Phil aboard Rowe’De’O are leading the charge in the Whangaroa Sport Fishing Club (Inc) (Diomedia Cup) 6kg Light Tackle Tournament — go team!
Meanwhile, huge news from the Whangarei Deep Sea Anglers Club 6kg Light Tackle Tournament: Cordell Armstrong landed an incredible 115kg striped marlin while targeting kingfish on 6kg line!! Massive congratulations to the team on Sol E Mar — what a catch and on the first day of winter!! 🤩
All of this is perfect prep for the Bay of Islands Swordfish Club (Inc) International Yellowtail light tackle comp, kicking off next weekend!
Last day tomorrow for the Bluefix team — bring it home, boys! And thanks to the biggest legends of all - Hannah, Larissa and Lisa for looking after the sprats this weekend! 🙏🥰 ... See MoreSee Less
B O A T B U I L D E R S Join the Bluefix Boatworks team building NorthCape Custom Boats in the Stunning Bay of Islands, New Zealand!
We’re on the lookout for skilled and experienced boat builders to help craft world-class custom vessels in the Bay of Islands.
✨ What We Offer: 🔹 Work on premium, handcrafted boats alongside a passionate and talented team 🔹 A cutting-edge, purpose-built workshop in one of NZ’s most iconic marine destinations 🔹 Competitive pay and long-term opportunities in a growing company 🔹 A lifestyle like no other — work where others holiday!
🧰 Who We’re Looking For: ✅ Proven experience in boat building ✅ Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship ✅ Passion for quality and pride in your work ✅ Ability to work independently and as part of a team
If you’re ready to be part of something exceptional, we want to hear from you.
📩 Apply now or tag someone who might be perfect for the role!
How cool is this — the IGFA have introduced line class world records for juniors! 🙌 Now young guns 16 & under can get the recognition they deserve for their catches!
A couple of days ago our son Charlie Rowe landed a pending world record Swordfish on 15kg line 🔥 Big ups to John Batterton on the helm and the gaff lads, juniors Toby Paterson & Ollie Sainsbury for helping me out on the deck.
Today we say farewell to the amazing Norhi from the Bluefix shed. It’s been a privilege to complete this catamaran refit, the last refit for the Bluefix team for a while. A huge thanks to these amazing clients and to everyone involved! Bay of Islands Marina - Opua
Now, we turn the page to an exciting new chapter with some incredible NorthCape Custom builds on the horizon:
1) NorthCape Custom 43 – Mothership (Underway)
2) NorthCape Custom 49 – Kona
3) NorthCape Custom 51 – Cape Verde
4) NorthCape Custom 58 – Cairns
Some unbelievable projects ahead — stay tuned! ... See MoreSee Less
The warmest kiwi welcome to Jack Vitek, Editor-in-Chief of Marlin Magazine, and light-tackle fishing legend Gary Carter as they touch down in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand! It’s a long way from the USA, and we’re honoured to have you both here! @marlinmag #NorthCapeCustomBoatsJack Vitek... See MoreSee Less
A HUGE welcome to two very special new additions to the Bluefix extended family! Congratulations to our General Manager, Wendy Croft, and her partner, Tom, on the arrival of gorgeous baby Awa 💙, and to our Project Manager, Cody Kelly, and his fiancé, Larissa, on the birth of beautiful Violet 💕—both making their grand entrance a little earlier than expected! Wishing your families a lifetime of love, happiness, and amazing adventures ahead!! ... See MoreSee Less
It was an amazing afternoon / evening yesterday celebrating Austin, Matty and Nathan's graduation at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron in Auckland! The best part of Bluefix is our team, who are all so special! We are very lucky and proud to have such a tight-knit group of incredible humans ❤️❤️🎉🎉 Congratulations boys!! Love it when hard works pays off!! ... See MoreSee Less
#SNAFU Big things are happening here at Bluefix! Construction is about to kick off on the NorthCape Custom 48, designed specifically for Bryan Toney and Jason Long with a heavy dose of next-level performance and rip-snorting capabilities, with many unique design features! We can’t wait to see this rig ripping around after giant Blue Marlin in Kona, Hawaii! Stay tuned—this is gonna be a wild one. #customgameboat#customsportsfisher #snafu #boatbuilding#composite... See MoreSee Less
We’re beyond thrilled to be building a NorthCape Custom for the Dogs Bollocks team in Cape Verde, one of the world’s most renowned destinations for marlin fishing. These legends won the Blue Marlin World Cup in 2024 with a 845-pound blue marlin aboard the current Dogs Bollocks. Designed specifically for Cape Verde’s unique conditions, the NorthCape Custom 51 is set to begin construction in 2026—we can’t wait to see a NorthCape Custom hit these very special waters! #excited#capeverde#DesignedToPerform#quality#composite#nzmade#boatbuildingExtremely happy to announce this is coming at us soon, contract signed and deposit has been paid. @mark.milner.794 to be a proud as owner of a bad ass fishing boat for Blue Marlin situated in Cape Verde has been slotted and confirmed for the build of a North Cape 51 built by @bluefix_boatworks coming at ya for 2027. Custom built, @bluefix_boatworks social media has the world of sport fishing talking and we are getting one, love us or hate us we are getting one 🎣🎣🎣🎣🎣🎣 ... See MoreSee Less
The new Opua @bayofislandsswordfishclub is officially underway! This morning, the first shovel hit the ground, led by our legendary club president, Jeff Douglas, alongside co-legends Murray Hansen and Greg Morgan. If all goes as planned, we’ll all be having an after-work beer at the club in November! 🍻🍻 This is going to change how our club’s tournaments can be run, with the @bayofislandsmarina right there and trailer boat parking making everything easier. We couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead for this incredible club! #bayofislandsswordfishclub#beersinnovember... See MoreSee Less
Celebrating Cody Kelly’s 10-year anniversary at Bluefix Boatworks! From winning NZ Apprentice of the Year to running the show as Project Manager, Cody’s journey has been nothing short of impressive. His dedication, skill, and leadership have played a key role within the company—despite some of the worst haircuts in history, an unshakable love for aviators (even indoors), and a borderline concerning obsession with country music. Not to mention a singing voice that we’ve somehow grown to love. Here’s to ten years of hard work, questionable style choices, and plenty more to come! You're loyalty is so very appreciated, keep being you Cody!! ❤️#legend ... See MoreSee Less
With two incredible NorthCape Custom boats beginning construction this year, we are looking for skilled and experienced boat builders to join our very talented Bluefix team. Quality is everything when it comes to these boats, so if you or someone you know is an experienced and skilled boat builder please get in touch for more information! Let's go! #customsportsfisher#whippedup#boatbuilding#quality#composite#ripsnorters#builttoperform#excited... See MoreSee Less
After an incredible three week break the Bluefix team are back on deck for all of your boat building requirements! We are looking forward to a very exciting 2025!! #HappyNewYear#BackOnDeck... See MoreSee Less
Sounds like an incredible issue Jack! 🇳🇿🇳🇿🇳🇿 ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Incredible and very humbling words from Jack Vitek, Editor-in-Chief of Marlin Magazine in the latest issue!
“These guys are building fishing weapons—sleek, high-performance custom sport-fishers under the NorthCape brand with the rare ability to reverse at 10-plus knots. They’re aiming to fill the niche G&S left behind, and having fished both builds, I can confidently say that the baton has been passed.”
A couple of months ago, we had the absolute pleasure of hosting Jack here in New Zealand. He jumped aboard the NorthCape Custom 43 with Capt John Batterton, legend light tackle angler Gary Carter along and pro decky Brad Fergus, targeting swords on 8- and 12-pound mono and casting flies to stripeys on 8-pound tippet.
Even though the weather didn’t quite play ball, the trip was one to remember, and this article of Jack’s captures the spirit of New Zealand’s sportfishing scene perfectly.
Sometimes it’s easy to forget how lucky we are, with world-class fishing clubs up and down the coast and a passionate fishing culture that’s second to none! Not to mention an incredible organisation behind it all New Zealand Sport Fishing Council Inc
We hope to welcome Jack back again soon and maybe even our favourite Magazine back to our shores 🤞🤞🙏❤️ Bay of Islands Swordfish Club (Inc) Whangaroa Sport Fishing Club (Inc) ... See MoreSee Less
5 CommentsComment on Facebook
🚨 Experienced Marine Painter/Fairer Wanted! 🚨
With a packed pipeline of high-end projects, we’re on the hunt for an experienced marine painter/fairer to join our exceptional team
We build world-class custom sportfishing vessels with an uncompromising commitment to quality and we need someone who takes just as much pride in their craft. Our boats are finished to an immaculate standard, and your work will be a key part of delivering that flawless finish.
What we’re looking for:
- Proven experience in marine painting and fairing
- Attention to detail and a passion for perfection
- A strong work ethic and commitment to quality workmanship
Why join us?
- Be part of a team building some of the most respected custom boats on the water
- Work in a supportive, skilled environment where your work truly matters
- Long pipeline of exciting upcoming builds
Sound like you?
Apply now by sending your CV and a brief summary of your experience to info@bluefixboatworks.co.nz, or phone 09 4026814 or send us a PM! We look forward to hearing from you!! Please share if you know anyone who might be interested! ... See MoreSee Less
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
Another great day for the ladies on Rowe'De'O in the light tackle Totalspan International Yellowtail tournament. Faith, Jo and Charlotte providing the goods on a challenging New Zealand winters day! Thanks to Brad and Logan for dealing with these ladies, we know it can be a tough task 👌 This tournament has been running for 55 years. 55 years of rod-bending, fish-fighting madness, all thanks to the absolute legends at the Bay of Islands Swordfish Club (Inc) You guys are the real MVPs! 🙌❤️ ... See MoreSee Less
5 CommentsComment on Facebook
Day Two Highlights from the Kings Birthday Weekend 6kg Light Tackle Tournaments!
The Bluefix crew made up of Brad, Charlie, Kurt, Cody and Phil aboard Rowe’De’O are leading the charge in the Whangaroa Sport Fishing Club (Inc) (Diomedia Cup) 6kg Light Tackle Tournament — go team!
Meanwhile, huge news from the Whangarei Deep Sea Anglers Club 6kg Light Tackle Tournament: Cordell Armstrong landed an incredible 115kg striped marlin while targeting kingfish on 6kg line!! Massive congratulations to the team on Sol E Mar — what a catch and on the first day of winter!! 🤩
All of this is perfect prep for the Bay of Islands Swordfish Club (Inc) International Yellowtail light tackle comp, kicking off next weekend!
Last day tomorrow for the Bluefix team — bring it home, boys! And thanks to the biggest legends of all - Hannah, Larissa and Lisa for looking after the sprats this weekend! 🙏🥰 ... See MoreSee Less
6 CommentsComment on Facebook
B O A T B U I L D E R S Join the Bluefix Boatworks team building NorthCape Custom Boats in the Stunning Bay of Islands, New Zealand!
We’re on the lookout for skilled and experienced boat builders to help craft world-class custom vessels in the Bay of Islands.
✨ What We Offer:
🔹 Work on premium, handcrafted boats alongside a passionate and talented team
🔹 A cutting-edge, purpose-built workshop in one of NZ’s most iconic marine destinations
🔹 Competitive pay and long-term opportunities in a growing company
🔹 A lifestyle like no other — work where others holiday!
🧰 Who We’re Looking For:
✅ Proven experience in boat building
✅ Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship
✅ Passion for quality and pride in your work
✅ Ability to work independently and as part of a team
If you’re ready to be part of something exceptional, we want to hear from you.
📩 Apply now or tag someone who might be perfect for the role!
#BoatBuilders #MarineJobsNZ #NorthCapeCustomBoats #BayOfIslands #BoatBuildingCareers #JoinOurCrew #Craftsmanship #NZMarineJobs ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
How cool is this — the IGFA have introduced line class world records for juniors! 🙌 Now young guns 16 & under can get the recognition they deserve for their catches!
A couple of days ago our son Charlie Rowe landed a pending world record Swordfish on 15kg line 🔥 Big ups to John Batterton on the helm and the gaff lads, juniors Toby Paterson & Ollie Sainsbury for helping me out on the deck.
Got a frothing junior angler? Time to get amongst it! 👊 #NextGenAnglers #IGFA #WorldRecord #Swordfish #JuniorFishing #LegendsOnDeck #YoungGuns John Batterton
Read more from the IGFA here👇
igfa.org/2025/03/31/international-game-fish-association-introduces-new-junior-line-and-tippet-cla...
New Zealand Sport Fishing Council Inc ... See MoreSee Less
22 CommentsComment on Facebook
Today we say farewell to the amazing Norhi from the Bluefix shed. It’s been a privilege to complete this catamaran refit, the last refit for the Bluefix team for a while. A huge thanks to these amazing clients and to everyone involved! Bay of Islands Marina - Opua
Now, we turn the page to an exciting new chapter with some incredible NorthCape Custom builds on the horizon:
1) NorthCape Custom 43 – Mothership (Underway)
2) NorthCape Custom 49 – Kona
3) NorthCape Custom 51 – Cape Verde
4) NorthCape Custom 58 – Cairns
Some unbelievable projects ahead — stay tuned! ... See MoreSee Less
5 CommentsComment on Facebook
... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
It was an absolute pleasure Jack! Thanks for coming down to our part of the world!! 🌎🎣 ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
The warmest kiwi welcome to Jack Vitek, Editor-in-Chief of Marlin Magazine, and light-tackle fishing legend Gary Carter as they touch down in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand! It’s a long way from the USA, and we’re honoured to have you both here! @marlinmag #NorthCapeCustomBoats Jack Vitek ... See MoreSee Less
5 CommentsComment on Facebook
A HUGE welcome to two very special new additions to the Bluefix extended family! Congratulations to our General Manager, Wendy Croft, and her partner, Tom, on the arrival of gorgeous baby Awa 💙, and to our Project Manager, Cody Kelly, and his fiancé, Larissa, on the birth of beautiful Violet 💕—both making their grand entrance a little earlier than expected! Wishing your families a lifetime of love, happiness, and amazing adventures ahead!! ... See MoreSee Less
8 CommentsComment on Facebook
It was an amazing afternoon / evening yesterday celebrating Austin, Matty and Nathan's graduation at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron in Auckland! The best part of Bluefix is our team, who are all so special! We are very lucky and proud to have such a tight-knit group of incredible humans ❤️❤️🎉🎉 Congratulations boys!! Love it when hard works pays off!! ... See MoreSee Less
7 CommentsComment on Facebook
#SNAFU Big things are happening here at Bluefix! Construction is about to kick off on the NorthCape Custom 48, designed specifically for Bryan Toney and Jason Long with a heavy dose of next-level performance and rip-snorting capabilities, with many unique design features! We can’t wait to see this rig ripping around after giant Blue Marlin in Kona, Hawaii! Stay tuned—this is gonna be a wild one. #customgameboat #customsportsfisher #snafu #boatbuilding #composite ... See MoreSee Less
26 CommentsComment on Facebook
We’re beyond thrilled to be building a NorthCape Custom for the Dogs Bollocks team in Cape Verde, one of the world’s most renowned destinations for marlin fishing. These legends won the Blue Marlin World Cup in 2024 with a 845-pound blue marlin aboard the current Dogs Bollocks. Designed specifically for Cape Verde’s unique conditions, the NorthCape Custom 51 is set to begin construction in 2026—we can’t wait to see a NorthCape Custom hit these very special waters! #excited #capeverde #DesignedToPerform #quality #composite #nzmade #boatbuildingExtremely happy to announce this is coming at us soon, contract signed and deposit has been paid. @mark.milner.794 to be a proud as owner of a bad ass fishing boat for Blue Marlin situated in Cape Verde has been slotted and confirmed for the build of a North Cape 51 built by @bluefix_boatworks coming at ya for 2027. Custom built, @bluefix_boatworks social media has the world of sport fishing talking and we are getting one, love us or hate us we are getting one 🎣🎣🎣🎣🎣🎣 ... See MoreSee Less
16 CommentsComment on Facebook
The new Opua @bayofislandsswordfishclub is officially underway! This morning, the first shovel hit the ground, led by our legendary club president, Jeff Douglas, alongside co-legends Murray Hansen and Greg Morgan. If all goes as planned, we’ll all be having an after-work beer at the club in November! 🍻🍻 This is going to change how our club’s tournaments can be run, with the @bayofislandsmarina right there and trailer boat parking making everything easier. We couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead for this incredible club! #bayofislandsswordfishclub #beersinnovember ... See MoreSee Less
6 CommentsComment on Facebook
Celebrating Cody Kelly’s 10-year anniversary at Bluefix Boatworks! From winning NZ Apprentice of the Year to running the show as Project Manager, Cody’s journey has been nothing short of impressive. His dedication, skill, and leadership have played a key role within the company—despite some of the worst haircuts in history, an unshakable love for aviators (even indoors), and a borderline concerning obsession with country music. Not to mention a singing voice that we’ve somehow grown to love. Here’s to ten years of hard work, questionable style choices, and plenty more to come! You're loyalty is so very appreciated, keep being you Cody!! ❤️#legend ... See MoreSee Less
9 CommentsComment on Facebook
The next NorthCape Custom is underway! This NorthCape Custom 43 is going to be an incredibly special light tackle battle wagon and has been designed and engineered using a lot of carbon fibre for weight savings, with lifting points. #DesignedToPerform #excited #quality #composite #boatbuilding #NZMade ... See MoreSee Less
12 CommentsComment on Facebook
With two incredible NorthCape Custom boats beginning construction this year, we are looking for skilled and experienced boat builders to join our very talented Bluefix team. Quality is everything when it comes to these boats, so if you or someone you know is an experienced and skilled boat builder please get in touch for more information! Let's go! #customsportsfisher #whippedup #boatbuilding #quality #composite #ripsnorters #builttoperform #excited ... See MoreSee Less
9 CommentsComment on Facebook
After an incredible three week break the Bluefix team are back on deck for all of your boat building requirements! We are looking forward to a very exciting 2025!! #HappyNewYear #BackOnDeck ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook