Table of contents for April 2024 in Boating NZ

What a month March was for boaties! Festivals, yacht regattas, fishing tournaments and boat shows – March had them all, along with the sort of settled weather we so missed last year, allowing boating fans to fully enjoy them. Kicking the month off was the St Arnaud’s Antique and Classic Boat Show on Lake Rotoiti in the Nelson Lakes district in the first weekend of March. The 24th edition of the show was a great success, billed by some international commentators as the greatest classic boat show on earth. It attracted hundreds of unique and interesting boats and thousands of visitors. See our feature on page 94. Auckland’s Waitemat? Harbour played host to a wide range of aquatic and marine-themed events during March as part of the Moana Festival Auckland,…

Just ahead of its home event in Christchurch, the New Zealand SailGP Team introduced its dynamic new identity: Black Foils. Inspired by New Zealand’s sporting excellence, the Black Foils signify a bold new chapter for the team. Celebrating the news, New Zealand wing trimmer and co-CEO Blair Tuke said: “Black Foils embodies the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines our team. New Zealand sport has a longstanding affinity with the colour black, it symbolises strength, courage, passion and resilience – values that are all integral to our team and what we stand for.” Driver and co-CEO Peter Burling added: “The Black Foils represent the spirit of New Zealand. We’re a nation of pioneers, achievers, and ocean lovers. The foils are what allow us to fly above the water at speeds…

The Caribbean 32 is closely related to its slightly larger sibling the Caribbean 35 and is sometimes overlooked in favour of the bigger boat, says Scott, but the smaller vessel gives nothing away in terms of utility or performance – and it fits neatly into a 10.5m berth, a major plus in these days of rising marina berth prices and general berth scarcity, especially in the more popular lengths. As a Caribbean Boats’ demonstrator and his personal vessel, Scott has added a lot of kit to what left the factory as a fairly simple, though decently specc’d, basic vessel. For example, instead of electronic common-rail diesel engines, Nighthawk II features a pair of fully mechanical Yanmar 240hp diesels running shafts for ease of operation, maintenance and repair, there’s no teak…

But are there downsides to going large? What is it like to actually have a nearly 50 footer – quite a substantial yacht by anyone’s standards? The Dufour 470 is 14.85 metres on deck, 13.55 metres on the waterline, and a massive 4.7 metres at maximum beam, which starts amidships and carries right aft. The topsides are high, although the low-profile cabin top saves her from looking too bulky or top-heavy. Make no mistake – this is a big boat, and it comes with some big boat features. Approaching the boat off the dock, a large boarding platform folds down off the transom on a purchase system. A telescoping swim ladder slides out of the centre. Facing the boat stern-on from the marina finger, it’s easy to see the hull…

The results, says Linda Ahl, Zipwake’s Senior Vice-President, International Sales, Marketing & Communication, “exceeded our expectations – and were very pleasing given the challenging global economic conditions during 2023. “Growth in the US – our biggest market – was particularly robust. Up 60% in the aftermarket (retrofit) sector, and 30% among OEMs. This is significant because the US boating sector has always leaned towards traditional trim tabs and change has been slow. It now seems many more DIYers – and an increasing number of OEMS – are embracing Zipwake technology.” Though not quite as spectacular, the European market has also performed well (up 30%). The Interceptor blade technology is now distributed in 34 countries and extends to 24 different products divided across two market sectors – the E-Series for larger…

SMUGGLER MARINE has released its new generation Strata 750 RIB, featuring a number of improvements and new appointments. The new model has Smuggler’s all-new Gen 2 console with a toilet located under the helm console and an onboard refrigerator under the helm seat. Other changes include upgraded seating, a re-designed Targa top and stainless structure, as well as the addition of removable side clears for extra protection from the elements. Seating at the helm comprises two Captain’s-style seats, with lift-up seat bolsters and foldable armrests. The 750 retains passenger seating and a sunpad in the bow area, as well as cockpit corner seating aft. There is ample storage with underfloor lockers forward and aft, under the helm seat, and in the transom. Designed to perform, the new Strata 750 retains…

EYACHTS ANNOUNCES an impressive line-up for the upcoming Sanctuary Cove Boat Show, May 23 to 26. Eyachts will premiere some of the most cutting-edge vessels in the industry, including the much-anticipated Axopar 29 Sun Top, Axopar 45 Sun Top, and the ground-breaking RAND Supreme 27 Electric. • Axopar 29 Sun Top: Redesigned to perfection, the 29 Sun Top sets a new standard for sub-30-foot boats, offering the new opening Sun Top roof, a forward cabin with ample storage and convertible sleeping area, and a social bow area with seating for up to eight guests. The driver-focused helm and customisable aft deck layouts further enhance the Axopar 29 Sun Top’s appeal. • Axopar 45 Sun Top: The Axopar 45 Sun Top features comfortable and social bow and cockpit seating areas and…

36° BROKERS IS TO PROUD to sponsor the annual Whangaroa Race and Rally in partnership with the Bay of Islands Yacht Club. The event features multiple racing divisions, along with a cruising division for leisurely sailing enthusiasts. Departing from the northern channel marks between Russell and Waitangi in the Bay of Islands, the 30nm journey includes passing the Cavalli islands, turning left at Flat Island, before reaching Whangaroa Harbour. The event is known for its social raft-up under the Duke’s Nose Walkway and DOC hut and is held annually around the weekend closest to ANZAC Day. For further details and enquiries, contact Robbs at robbs@36degrees.nz…

Fast-forward to 2024 and the performance and handling benefits of these design features are indisputable. This style has now become almost the norm for new designs arriving from the naval powerhouses of Europe. And the Ryck 280 is another great example, albeit with enough subtle changes to differentiate it from the competition. Coming out of Germany, Ryck is a new division of well-known yachting brand Hanse. Realising that its range offering had a gap in the 24- to 39-foot powerboat segment, Hanse decided to create a new brand to help fill that gap. And the Ryck 280, designed by Bill Dixon, a Brit, is the first model to carry this new branding. Positioned as a day cruiser, Hanse has attempted to combine a comfortable cabin with a stylish sport design.…

It’s unfair to single any of them out at the recent Wooden Boats Festival, but the former Auckland Harbour Board 20m pilot boat Akarana, and the 3.6m ‘Rolls Royce’ Tamariki Jnr dinghy, stand out in a crowded field. AKARANA Firstly Akarana, a proud emblem of Auckland’s maritime history. She was designed by A. J. Collings and built by W. G. Lowe in 1960 for the Ports of Auckland. She saw service for 34 years until she was retired in late 1994 and sold to Peter McDonald. Six years later she was on-sold to her current owners, Dick and Colleen Fisher of Whangarei. After purchasing Akarana, Dick took her to his workshop in Kamo where he constructed a purpose-built shed and commenced a five-year restoration. “I was lucky enough to have…

“Auckland really turned it on this week, the weather was impeccable, great hospitality from our host family and the RNZYS.” Hyde and team join a list of five other sailors in the cup’s 34-year history to win back-to-back events, joining Josh Junior, Royal Port Nicholson Yacht Club, Phil Robertson & Graeme Sutherland, RNZYS, Jimmy Spithill, Royal Price Alfred Yacht Club and Richard Sydenham, Royal Yachting Association. Hyde commented at the opening that coming in as the defending champion and fresh off a big win, the team was just going to focus on “keeping it simple & working together”. After a close racing, the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club’s Daniel Kemp and his crew of Louis Tilly, Lachlan Wallace, Charlie Verity, Isabella Holdworth finished a close second. Isabella said after prizegiving,…

New Zealand finished third on Sydney Harbour while Australia sailed away with the win – their first of the season – after going neck and neck with Denmark for most of the podium final. The Kiwis maintained their overall second-place position in the season standings with 58 points, now eight points behind Australia in first (66 points). Denmark is third overall with 52 points. The day began with a solid performance from the Kiwi crew, finishing second behind Germany who claimed their first-ever SailGP win. Despite a mid-fleet finish in race five, New Zealand cemented its spot in the final alongside Denmark and Australia, the frontrunners after day one. Eyeing a hat trick after back-to-back wins in the middle east, the final got off to a challenging start for New…

RAYGLASS BOATS, one of New Zealand’s largest GRP boat builders, launched the newest and most versatile model in its Legend Series, the Legend 3000, at the Auckland Boat Show in March. The multipurpose cabin cruiser comes fully equipped with premium features and is the perfect crossover for boaters looking to entertain family and friends, spend the day fishing, or take a weekend getaway. “Most models we see in the market today are either fully fishing focused or designed solely for entertaining. The Legend 3000 fits in the hybrid sweet spot, combining comfort, ample space, and customizable options for all-in-one trips,” said Dean Harris, President, Rayglass Boats. “The adventures are endless with this model.” The Legend 3000 is the first in its category to incorporate modern elements from the Rayglass Protector…

CELEBRATING THREE DECADES of custom alloy boat building and over 600 boats, White Pointer Boats is releasing a new ‘30-Year Anniversary’ model at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, May 16-19. Based on the company’s popular 730 Sports Cruiser model, with input from customers and the crew at White Pointer, the new model is a culmination of 30 years of expertise and passion from Rex Briant and his team of alloy craftsman. The new 745 Sport Cruiser has been designed for offshore game fishing expeditions, as well as family watersports, cruising, and exploring the lakes and coasts of New Zealand and Australia. The 745SC (7.8m LOA) is a big boat inside and out, fitted with an extra-large 400-litre fuel tank for the show and partnered with a modern high performance…

LAUNCHED IN FEBRUARY 2024 to the sounds of a champagne cork and a splash, followed by moving speeches from her excited Wellington-based owners, Amamus was a picture of elegance as the latest Elite AT43 sliced through the water on launch day. Amamus has several personalised touches to suit her future Marlborough Sounds home, including a large Maltese cross and fairleads on the bow to guide large mooring ropes, six solar panels, and a larger full height fridge for long extended trips away. The owners opted for the single Cummins 600QSC which gives a cruise speed of 20 knots and a top speed of 27 knots, automatic Zip Wake trim tabs, and beautiful custom designed interior finishes. Amamus has the usual Elite AT43 three-cabin layout: Island berth master, a large double…

They choose to fly. While the rest of us mere mortals plod along at four knots, glued to the water, slogging into chunky chop, slapped by rude powerboat wakes, taking spray full in the face, the foilers are soaring. Like sailing superheroes: Zip! Zoom! Zowee! Foilers live the dream of us waterslugs: admit it, wouldn’t you like to go flying at 10, 15, 20, even 30 knots, the foils singing, an insane velocity of apparent wind whistling through your helmet? Are you ready to step up, to live on the cutting edge instead of the (sigh, yawn) ordinary sailing experience? It can happen to you. Over the past year I have seen my circle of seemingly normal sailing friends become consumed by wing-foiling. If they go without winging for more…

Three thousand enthusiasts attended over the weekend, drawn by the usual mix of the quirky (a pedal-powered catamaran) to the magnificent (a Riva speedboat once owned by Jackie Kennedy-Onassis). The Jens Hansen Trophy for the best vessel overall went to the 1960’s pleasure craft Aqualark, owned by Laurie Brown of Christchurch. The glass-over-ply 16-footer is powered by a Ford Zodiac 2.5-litre car engine and seats five in its twin cockpits. The boat was immaculately restored between 2017 and 2024 by the owner with help from Darryl Moffey and Josh Bright. “It’s a restoration done with ‘next level’ detail,” said judge Tim Porter from Boating NZ magazine. “The blue and white exterior is immaculate and even the engine bay is extremely tidy… with the screws on the inside of the hatches…

Though light airs proved a challenge for 498-tonne Perseus^3, they weren’t enough to stop the Perini Navi’s charge. The final day of racing on Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf saw the fleet competing in light airs on a course which gave them 23nm for one last push to reign supreme. The yachts took off from Motutapu, to the Noises, then D’Urville Rock, Rakino, the Haystack, and home again, remaining close together throughout the length of the course. Perseus^3 crossed for home first while behind her, Janice of Wyoming, Sassafras, Cat+Ion and Kotuku clung together in a drag race. “I love being here in New Zealand, but what I love most about our boat is we have these warriors who sail it here. When we race, we bring the greatest,” said the owner…

Soon to be taking its place as the flagship of the Dutch shipyard, the brand-new 24m Zeelander 8 is an aesthetic development of the smaller Zeelander models. It also features the same speed, quietness and immaculate finish that have helped position the brand at the very apex of yachting. This is a contemporary Cor D. Rover design with a quality of timelessness, which ensures the boat will look every bit as good in 20 years as it does now. The Zeelander 8 so closely resembles her smaller sisters that it is hard to make out her scale from the renderings. Only seeing the yacht alongside and with a human figure aboard betrays her true size. The yacht will offer three double cabins for guests and space for up to three…

FROM LAND TO SEA, the new Overlander Pursuit provides unmatched freedom. Combining Haines Hunter’s award winning 725 21° deep-vee hull, and Anura amphibious system, the OP725 is the ultimate go-anywhere machine. Capable of 44-plus knots, the Overlander has a supremely comfortable, quiet, and dry ride. A spacious hardtop with open-plan layout, the OP725 can be spec’d for game fishing, diving, or escaping to your favourite bay. The OP725 comes with an impressive range of standard features and can be optioned up with enclosed head (toilet), fridge/freezer, galley and full length V-berth. www.haineshunter.co.nz…

RIVIERA WILL HOST world premiere celebrations and their exclusive Festival of Boating owners’ event as part of a record 12-model showcase at the 2024 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show beginning on May 23. The grand Riviera showcase will feature the world premiere of a yet-to-be-announced new luxury motor yacht. Visitors will be able to inspect Riviera’s fleet, from the Riviera long-range and luxurious Sports Motor Yacht, sophisticated Sport Yacht, adventurous SUV, the flagship Motor Yacht and the classic elegance of the Belize collections. As part of their Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show display, Riviera owners will be exclusively invited to the Riviera Festival of Boating. The three-day programme includes inspiring boating education and training workshops and seminars, all created to encourage Riviera owners and their families to realise their ultimate…

POWER EQUIPMENT has announced that Smartgyro, a global leader in marine gyroscopic stabilisation technology, has joined the Power Equipment stable of brands. The range of Smartgyro marine stabilisers helps to eliminate boat roll and maximise your vessel’s efficiency and overall performance in just about any sea conditions. With six models in the range, Smartgyro stabilisers are suitable for boats between 13m and 29m in length. This collaboration is not only an opportunity for growth for Smartgyro, but also strengthens their presence and partnership with another trusted brand in the YANMAR family. www.powerequipment.com.au/smartgyro…

WASZP If you’ve followed any of the SailGP racing, you’ve already seen the 3.35m WASZP in action. Part of the SailGP Inspire programme, WASZP racing gives young sailors the opportunity to learn all about foiling from the F50 pros. Unlike the other classes here, the international one-design WASZP has a hull – a slim, featherlight canoe body, just big enough to stow a cellphone, water bottle, and a sandwich. The WASZP is fast – capable of 24 knots – and jumps up on its foils in only seven knots of wind, and the boat is super-sensitive to sail trim and steering. The WASZP is also very civilized: there’s no hiking necessary, in welcome contrast to the grit-and-bear-it of Laser sailing. Now that’s progressive. KITEFOIL With its high-aspect inflated wing way…

Puzzle no.317 Across 8. _____ boat – flattish boat that relies on floats to stay buoyant (7) 9. NZ’s Port Chalmers lies inside _____ Harbour (5) 10. Time to fish for flounder (5) 11. Direct course on which boat can reach racing mark or buoy (7) 12. What outgoing tides did (5) 14. Upward curve of vessel’s line towards bow and stern (5) 16. _____ fisher – power boat designed for angling adventures (5) 18. Naval _____ – operational dockyards used by navy (5) 20. South American dish of marinated raw fish or shellfish (7) 21. Make ship-to-shore contact (5) 23. Switch _____ – marine control device with circuit breakers (5) 24. _____-trees – horizontal pieces of timber on lower mast supporting topmast (7) Down 1. Types of fishing lures…