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Master sailmaker · Est. 2005021 744 553
CoverMania
The craftsman

One pair
of hands

Every CoverMania job goes through Sebastian. He quotes it, makes it and stands behind it.

Sebastian Obermeier · master sailmaker · Auckland
Sebastian Obermeier, founder and master sailmaker at CoverMania
Sebastian Obermeier · founder, CoverMania
The story

From German sail lofts to Auckland marinas

Sebastian's trade began in Germany, where he completed his first apprenticeship in 1983, then joined his father's sailmaking business and earned a second apprenticeship as a sailmaker. Sailmaking is exacting work. A sail is an engineered fabric structure that has to hold its shape under enormous load, and that discipline is the foundation of everything CoverMania makes.

After leaving Germany and a short stint in Australia, Sebastian settled in New Zealand. Five years with Auckland sailmakers, then seven years with an awning manufacturer, added architectural and outdoor canvas to the marine foundation.

In 2005 he founded CoverMania as a sole trader, incorporating in 2008. Since then thousands of jobs have gone through the workshop: boat covers, shade sails, window seats, leather recliners, machinery covers. Every one made to the same standard.

"Quality is paramount to me. My aim is to produce lasting products to a high standard, to the complete satisfaction of my clients."
Close-up of industrial sewing machine stitching a zip into canvas at the CoverMania workshop
Inside the workshop
Workshop log
  1. 1980–83First apprenticeship, Germany
  2. 1985–88His father's sailmaking business, second apprenticeship as a sailmaker
  3. 1990sMoved to New Zealand via Australia. Five years with Auckland sailmakers
  4. 1990s–2000sSeven years with an Auckland awning manufacturer
  5. 2005Founded CoverMania as a sole trader
  6. 2008Incorporated CoverMania Ltd
  7. TodayThousands of jobs later, same standards, same hands

How the workshop runs

I.

Custom made, always

Every job is measured and patterned individually. No generic templates, no "close enough" fits.

II.

Materials that last

Solution-dyed acrylics, marine-grade PVC, quality hides, UV-stable thread, stainless fixings. The cheap version costs more in the end.

III.

Honest advice

If a repair is smarter than a replacement, that's the recommendation you'll get. It's why customers come back.

Direct line to the maker

Work with Sebastian

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