issue 01
30 June 2021
Cruise News Newsletter of Island Cruising NZ
Inside: Under New Ownership!, History of Island Cruising, upcoming events, Holding tank horror stories, Rally South, Rally to Japan, Update from the Pacific
Island Cruising NZ Contact Us Email Website Phone Facebook
Viki Moore info@islandcruising.nz www.islandcruising.nz +64 21 438 977 www.facebook.com/islandcruising.nz
on the cover Lyttelton yachts rafted up in Queen Charlotte Sound Photograph by Viki Moore
photos and news contributions are welcome
issue 01
contents June 2021
From the Helm The latest update from Island Cruising NZ's new owner
Upcoming Events Check out what is coming up for cruisers around the country.
Pacific COVID Update The latest news relating to the maritime border closures.
The History of Island Cruising A brief run down of the last 30 years of ICNZ.
Preparing for a Passage An upcoming online workshop for people with offshore sailing plans.
Rally Update Plans afoot for upcoming rallies.
Sustainable Sailing Tips on how to be a greener yachtie.
Holding Tank Horror Stories Some light bedtime reading.
Club Connection ICNZ links around NZ & the Pacific
features
From the helm Kia Ora koutou, my name is Viki Moore and I am excited to be the new owner of Island Cruising NZ. I am looking forward to continuing all the hard work that Nigel and Amanda Richards have put in to Island Cruising over the years and I'd like to acknowledge and thank them for all the advice and encouragement they have given me during the handover period. They will still be around assisting me in the background while I get settled in.
A bit of background about me: I have
I hope to be able to use all these
I plan to produce this monthly
been sailing for most of my life and
sailing, logistical, communications
newsletter providing you with the
am based in Lyttelton where I enjoy
skills and life experiences to the
latest cruising & long distance
cruising my Young88 Wildwood up
benefit of Island Cruising.
coastal racing news from around New
and down the coast to Marlborough and around Banks Peninsula.
Zealand and the Pacific. If you'd like The border closures have made
to contribute any news, stories,
running the regular Island Cruising
photos etc please send it through. I'd
In 2017 I was elected to the board of
rallies to the Pacific a bit tricky in
love to feature your articles and
Yachting New Zealand, where I enjoy
recent times, but we have got plans
photos.
representing the interests of cruisers,
in place to run a rally in 2022 should
women and South Island sailors
the borders reopen.
around the board table.
We will be showcasing the best products and services to meet the
We are also continuing to lobby the
needs of the cruising sailor. If your
I am also the President of a cruising
Government to allow cruisers
company would like to be a partner
club called the Little Ship Club of
currently in the Pacific to enter NZ a
please get in touch with me for more
Canterbury. We run regular social and
little easier, and we have a plan in
details.
educational events and have a
place to welcome them here when
growing membership and lots of fun. I
the border restrictions are relaxed.
also founded the Women Who Sail
In addition to the newsletter, you can become a member of Island Cruising
New Zealand Facebook group in
Over the summer period we will be
NZ. For just NZD$75 per annum,
2014 which now has over 1600
running a rally to the South Island to
members will receive special
members.
explore the stunning Marlborough
discounts from our partners, tips on
Sounds and then down to Banks
preparing for a longer voyage,
Peninsula to enjoy the SailGP event.
including working through all the Cat
My work background was in the Travel Industry where I enjoyed expoloring
1 or 2 safety requirements, the
the world and lots of the Pacific
If you've ever considered sailing to
opportunity to participate in social
Islands, and more recently I worked in
Asia, in 2023 we have plans for a
events and training courses, online
politics. Over the last 18 months I
rally to Japan which is shaping up to
webinars, help and advice when
have been lobbying and advocating
be an amazing event.
sailing offshore, assistance with all
who have been stuck in NZ and the
If you are considering a long coastal
international destinations, and much
Pacific or away from their boats due
or offshore voyage sometime, you'll
more.
to COVID border closures.
appreciate all the preparation
on behalf of the International sailors
the entry requirements to NZ or other
required to get yourself, your crew
In addition we will be working
Earlier this year I gained my Offshore
and your vessel ready to sail.
to encourage international sailors to
Yachtmaster qualification. I also
Navigating not only oceans but also
visit our amazing country, supporting
write a sailing blog and own a public
obtaining Cat 1 along with all the
hard
the efforts of organisations helping
relations company that specialises in
changes in entry requirements,
protect our precious marine
promoting the marine industry.
COVID & border restrictions can all
environment and doing good things
seem a bit overwhelming. Well, Island
for the communities in the Pacific
Cruising NZ is here to help!
who so warmly welcome cruising sailors.
I am really excited about the future of Island Cruising New Zealand and I look forward to meeting you all at some stage. I have got lots of plans for events and activities and helping you get out on the water more often.
Please feel free to get in touch if you have any feedback or suggestions on what you'd like to see in the newsletter and any other events you'd like us to organise.
Many thanks
Viki
PredictWind is excited to announce a new feature called “Local Knowledge”. This is a community resource where you can share your knowledge with all PredictWind users or just your private friend group. It is a wealth of information, so you can find the “Local Knowledge” wherever you are, you may even learn about some spots in your own local area! Check it out www.predictwind.com
t s e t a L
NEWS
Featuring the latest news in cruising in New Zealand and the Pacific. Yachting New Zealand YNZ ran an article which also featured in their briefings newsletter updating everyone on the change of ownership of Island Cruising NZ. You can read the article here.
Sailing Nikau in Fiji The Sailing Nikau family are currently sailing in Fiji and attended the Copra Shed Marina cruisers festival recently. Check out videos of their adventures on their YouTube channel. Central Triangle Race Royal Port Nicholson Yacht Club is pleased to announce the return of the Central Triangle race in 2022 starting Friday March 4. First run as a two handed event in 2013, then as a fully crewed event in 2015, the 2022 event will be a combined fully crewed and two handed inclusive event. For the two handed entrants it’s an ideal qualifier race for RNI 2023 especially for boats south of the Bombays.
Live Sail Die Live Sail Die is the place to go for all your local sailing news as it comes to hand. They also did an article on the ICNZ change of helm. Check out their article here. We also featured on Marine Business World
The approximately 730nm race starts from Wellington and boats head south on the 190nm leg to Akaroa. After a short stopover, experiencing the fabulous local hospitality, boats head north on the longest leg (350nm) to Napier. With an opportunity to visit the local wineries, complete some repairs or rest up, the boats then complete the triangle with the return 200nm leg to Wellington. Entries are now open! All the information you need can be found on the Central Triangle website here. This event is bought to you by RPNYC, with support from Napier Sailing Club, SSANZ and Akaroa Yacht Club.
Beyond the Barrier Rally
New Biofouling Rules for Auckland Vessels
Our Down Under Rally friends across the ditch have just returned from a 'Beyond the Barrier' rally, visiting exotic tropical destinations without even leaving the country! Check out their YouTube clip of some of the fun they had along the way.
Auckland has been found to have a wider range of harmful marine organisms than any other region in New Zealand and is a key source region for hull fouling organisms that can reach other areas of NZ. The Auckland Council is using education and regulation and has stepped up regional surveillance. They say that “Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland is highly connected to other regions of Aotearoa/New Zealand through the movement of both commercial and recreational vessels, and it is likely that new species will continue to be introduced and spread. However, effective management systems would reduce the rate of spread and prevent some new species from establishing.” The new rules are largely aligned with a number of other regional and territorial authorities, to assist in reducing the human-mediated spread of pests between regions, as well as within Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland itself. They say that “Aligned rules will also make compliance easier for vessels moving between regions. “ In summary the new rules say that: All owners or person in charge of any craft in the Auckland region must ensure that the level of fouling on the hull and in niches of the craft does not exceed ‘light fouling’. Any craft entering any marine water body in the Auckland region from the land must be free of all ballast water, bilge water, holding tank water or sea water held in any other container. No more than “light fouling” means: Slime: a hull can be partially or completely covered in biofilm (aka slime). You can “write” with your finger through slime. Macro-fouling (barnacles, worms, weed etc): can cover no more than 5% of the hull, including niches such as inlets, outlets, rudders, propellers etc. The species of fouling doesn’t matter to this measurement: total coverage must be no more than 5%. However, if pest species are present then you must not move the craft to a new location as this will involve communicating the pest. The Council has also made it unlawful to allow a hull to become so heavily fouled in its region that passive discharges occur, without obtaining a Resource Consent. All of this means that all vessels leaving from Auckland will now be required on leaving to meet higher standards than are set by other regions.
Island Cruising NZ is all about offering the cruising community "peace of mind" – through the help, guidance and support they give to boat owners wanting to venture offshore. For this same reason, the ICNZ is aligned to Baileys Insurance, as we feel comfortable with the first class insurance cover and claims support they can provide to our members. "Blue water" insurance cover is a specialist area, and the team at Baileys have the knowledge, skill and first hand experience to ensure you have the right cover for your particular circumstances – whether it be cruising the Pacific, or around the world, short handed or with a full crew. We achieve this by using quality insurers from local and overseas markets, all with "A" rated financial security as a minimum requirement. Our true independence and access to a choice of Insurers enables us to provide you with very competitive premium and excess terms. But most importantly, we are involved first hand with every claim to ensure it is settled as it should be. Contact Baileys Insurance for more information and get a quote for Island Cruising NZ Members.
https://www.baileysinsurance.co.nz BAILEYS INSURANCE LTD Phone: 09 444 8860 or 0800 898585 Email: enquiries@baileysinsurance.co.nz
How about a crew member who spends endless hours on the wheel, doesn’t eat or sleep, and never complains? A self steering windvane will steer your sailboat for short distances or across oceans with absolutely no power consumption. Having an emergency rudder is another consideration, and should be high on every offshore sailor’s list; second only to keeping the boat afloat, is keeping her pointed in the right direction. Will and Sarah Curry provide an overview of the different windvane systems, how they work, and what they can do for you. Get a sense of what offshore sailing is really like with video, stories, and other tips too. Click the picture to watch their webinar for cruisers preparing to cross the Atlantic.
Upcoming Events Island Cruising NZ members are spread far and wide, not only in New Zealand but also around the world. Many local yacht clubs run fantastic cruising programmes, events and activities for their members and also welcome the wider sailing community. My plan is to share these club events with the Island Cruising NZ network, so hopefully no matter where you are based, or if you are cruising around the country you can connect with your local club, get to meet some friendly cruising sailors and join in some of their activities as well as some special Island Cruising NZ events too. I haven't got around all the clubs at the time of sending out this first newsletter, but if you know of some cruising events coming up that you'd like me to feature in the newsletter, please send them through!
Women Who Sail New Zealand
Upcoming Events 1 July 2021 Tides & Currents – causes and application Why oceans have tides & currents Applying this information to cruising the Gulf or crossing oceans Calculating ‘tidal windows’ for safe crossing of bars and entering rivers such as the Tamaki River Gulf Harbour Yacht Club 7pm $5 for visitors 22 July 2021 Cruising to Japan Join us to hear all about this incredible cruising destination and the planned 2023 Sister City 50th Anniversary Rally Little Ship Club @ Naval Point in Lyttelton 7.30pm start 29 July 2021 Our Night Skies – What are we looking at? Presented by a member of the Hibiscus Coast Astronomical Society, this promises to make ‘star gazing’ a lot more interesting Gulf Harbour Yacht Club 7pm $5 for visitors 30 July 2021 Coastal Classic Starry Night Cocktail Gala More info on their website here.
5 August 2021 Boat Electronics – GPS, chartplotters, radar, AIS, depth sounders What they are and what they can do for you What’s available - features & benefits Gulf Harbour Yacht Club 7pm $5 for visitors 19 August 2021 Batteries on your Boat – Use, care & maintenance Electrical systems in boats Elementary wiring diagrams – why you should have one How to make proper marine standard connections Gulf Harbour Yacht Club 7pm $5 for visitors 19 August 2021 Choosing Courage over Comfort. Come along to hear about Jane's passage across the Pacific Ocean, whereby 31 days at sea fighting the trades, would be the biggest challenge on her journey - the ultimate test of her mantra, courage and mindset. Jane uses her sailing story to inspire people to quit sleepwalking through life and instead encourage them to live on the edge of their comfort zone, because that’s where the magic happens … that’s where we learn and grow. Little Ship Club @ Naval Point in Lyttelton 7.30pm start 23 August 2021 Members night in Auckland Venue TBA - come along for some dinner and a catch up with Viki Moore new owner of Island Cruising
August 2021 Island Cruising NZ Members cruising preparation online workshops Get regular updates on bite sized steps for preparing you, your vessel and your crew to do a long coastal or offshore voyage. Become a member to participate www.islandcruising.nz
18 - 19 September Evolution Sails, Waikawa Women's Regatta Come to beautiful Waikawa Boating Club for the popular women's regatta. Crews are matched up with boats for a great weekend of racing and socialising.
Upcoming Events 21 October 2021 Feeling Seasick? Lyttelton sailor Dudley Jackson had his offshore cruising plans thwarted by debilitating sea-sickness. This lead him to design and develop an innovative way of curing that awful green feeling sailors often get when heading in to rough seas! Come along and hear about how he came up with the idea, how he went about designing and manufacturing his product and try it out! It will be a fun interactive session. Little Ship Club @Naval Point in Lyttelton. 7.30pm start Friday 22 October Coastal Classic - Cruising Rally More information here.
November 2021 Welcome to New Zealand! I am ever hopeful that our maritime border restrictions will be relaxed and we can once again welcome sailors to our shores. Watch this space! 18 November 2021 Three Kings Offshore Race The Three Kings Offshore Race is a 500 nautical mile challenge from Auckland up and around the Three Kings Islands and then back to Auckland finishing where you started. The Three Kings Islands is a beautiful, yet rugged place that is a must see, past Cape Reinga with a slice of Ocean Racing. Check out the RNZYS website for more info
6 December 2021 Members night in Auckland Venue TBA - come along for some dinner and a catch up with Island Cruising NZ members and hear all about sailing in the South Island December 2021 - January 2022 Rally to the South Island Plans are underway for a rally to the South Island including calls at Abel Tasman, Marlborough Sounds, Banks Peninsula to watch Sail GP and then either sail home or on to Stewart Island and Fiordland. More info to come! Watch this space! March 2022 Central Triangle Short handed or fully crewed race from Wellington to Akaroa, Napier & back to Wellington. Great shakedown for an offshore voyage and some great parties along the way. More info here.
June 2022 Pacific Circuit Rally COVID border restrictions permitting, plans are underway for our famous Pacific Circuit Rally in 2022. Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu & New Caledonia. Contact us to register your interest. April 2023 Sister City 50th Anniversary Rally to Japan. from Christchurch and Wellington New Zealand to Kurashiki and Sakai Japan. Register your interest now.
Open Ocean Watermakers has been manufacturing watermakers in the beautiful Bay of Islands of New Zealand since 2001. Terry Forsbrey is the owner of Open Ocean. He and his wife Ariel lived aboard their yacht for 22 years and actively cruised offshore for 12 of those years. During their time on the water, Terry discovered that high tech components in a watermaker are not only unnecessary, they are usually the first thing to break down, and most often in remote locations. When helping out other cruisers, he frequently found that by-passing these components would get their watermakers working once again. That's when he realized that a simple, reliable, and affordablewatermaker could be made. Terry developed the early version of an engine driven model and took it cruising. He put it to the test for five years. He then returned to New Zealand to design and build a reliable watermaker without any superfluous gadgets. Thus was born a revolutionary new concept in watermakers. One that works all the time, is easy to operate, and doesn’t break the bank. Check out their website
Northland Spars and Rigging Ltd is one of New Zealand’s leading suppliers of mast and rigging services. For 15yrs and counting, NSR continues to provide marine services to New Zealand and visiting overseas yacht owners in Northland and the Bay of Island region. Our experienced team in Opua offers expert advice on rigging and marine engineering solutions; supplying everything from a complete replacement mast, new standing and running rigging, through to a simple rig check and tune up. Check out their website
Oceania Medical provides high quality, robust & logical first aid kits and medical supplies. We offer training packages and provide access to an online customer portal in which you can view, manage and resupply your first aid kits. Our complete service ensures that our customers are best prepared for a medical emergency. https://www.oceaniamedical.co.nz
CITY OF SAILS MARINE YACHT BROKERS – New and Used Boats For Sale – Motor Yachts – Power and Sail – Classic – Multihulls – Launches – Trailer Boats – Marine Products We are based in Auckland and offer offer a very wide selection of recreational and commercial boats of all types, both new and used. We are full service yacht and boat brokers – with the emphasis on service. We also offer a number of marine services and products, including loan finance, and market and insurance valuations. WE’RE SELLING BOATS – AND WE NEED NEW LISTINGS! We get results, so talk to us now about listing your boat for sale – we promote your boat through a number of websites and other outlets, including overseas as appropriate. Phone us any time: Blair Harkness, Mobile 021 245 8809 http://www.cityofsailsmarine.co.nz
DOCKLAND 5 Marine Ltd The perfect place to carry out boat repairs & refresh before your next adventure with haul out & hardstand facilities on the beautiful Whangarei Harbour. John Peagram Manager Mob: 0274 930 812 | Phone: 09438 8558 | Email: john@dockland5.co.nz
Trans Pacific Marine New Zealand's largest Nautical Bookshop, Chart Agent and Navigation Instrument Supplier - has been serving the Commercial and Recreational Marine Industries since 1963. Over 25,000 nautical / technical books & charts Worldwide chart coverage from all major chart publishers Extensive range of admiralty publications Navigation instruments, course supplies, marine books and calendars/ Cruising yachts our specialty Same day dispatch on most orders - order online
https://www.transpacific.co.nz
With the combined world-wide experience and technology at UK Sailmakers, we can provide the most advanced sail designs, construction, cloth selection, and hardware for the durability and comfort of your boat together with any custom canvas work you may need. You can be assured at UK Sailmakers Phil joined by his team that all your needs will be listened to and you will be provided with excellent materials, first class workmanship and service. www.northlandcanvas.co.nz
Seapower are Opua’s dedicated marine engineering, service and repair specialists. Our experienced marine engineers and technicians offer a full range of marine services to boat owners from all over New Zealand and overseas. Whether you have a mechanical, electrical, refrigeration, plumbing or boat repair challenge, we can assist. www.seapower.co.nz
features
Pacific COVID Update While many of the Pacific Borders remain closed, the situation remains fluid. We will aim to keep you updated with news and updates as they come to hand. Please note these updates can change any time! Keep an eye on our Facebook page for extra information. New Zealand
Fiji
Australia
The New Zealand Maritime border is
Fiji's "Blue Lane" has allowed a
The maritime border is closed. Only
still closed.
number of yachts to enter the country
Australian citizens, residents and
for cruising. We think about 11 boats
immediate family members can enter
New Zealand vessels are able to
from NZ have gone to Fiji this season.
Australia by sea. All crew must be
enter New Zealand provided the
Fiji has recently experienced a
isolated in mandatory quarantine.
skipper is reasonably satisfied that
COVID outbreak and the community
accommodation for 14 days on arrival
every person on board is either a New
was locked down. Restrictions have
You must provide arrival information
Zealand citizen or meets New
recently been relaxed but some
in advance.
Zealand’s visa requirements.
communities are understandably still
People in New Zealand can fly across
concerned about the chances of
the Tasman but the maritime border is
Foreign flagged vessels are not
infection and are not allowing sailors
still closed.
permitted to arrive unless certain
to go ashore. There are currently
We are working with our partners
criteria are met and permission has
around 150 new cases of COVID
Down Under Rally to lobby for the
been granted by New Zealand’s
each day being reported.
Trans-Tasman maritime border to
Director-General of Health.
open as well.
Additionally, any non-New Zealand
Join the Sailing & Cruising Fiji group
citizens on board must meet the
for extra information & advice.
Niue
Vanuatu
The Niue border is closed to all yachts
necessary visa requirements. Permission must be sought from Immigration New Zealand for non-
until further notice.
New Zealand citizens on board to
All ports of entry are closed until
enter New Zealand.
further notice.
French Polynesia
Vessels may be exempt if there is a
Cook Islands
It is forbidden for any pleasure boat
compelling need for the vessel to arrive in New Zealand for:
arriving in French Polynesia to call, The Cook Islands Maritime border is
anchor or park, or disembark at sea
reprovisioning and/or refuelling
closed. People who have been in New
any person in the internal waters and
OR
Zealand for 14 days can fly in to the
territorial sea of French Polynesia
the purpose of delivering the
Cook Islands without quarantine. We
until further notice.
vessel to a business which
have heard of one yacht sailing from
includes for the purpose of
Tahiti to NZ that was permitted to
Tonga
repairing or refitting the vessel
stop in Aitutaki to take on extra kiwi
AND
crew and spare parts. The sailors
Tonga's maritime border is closed
the Director-General has granted
were unable to go ashore.
until further notice.
New Caledonia
Samoa
Director-General has granted
The borders to New Caledonia remain
International borders remain closed
permission for the vessel to arrive in
closed until further notice. No
until further notice.
New Zealand for humanitarian
commercial passenger flights or
reasons or other compelling needs.
vessels are allowed in to the country.
the vessel permission to arrive in New Zealand. A vessel may also be exempt if the
Contact us for more information if you are planning on coming to NZ.
International cruisers in New Zealand International cruisers that are stuck here in New Zealand have had to extend their visitor visas a number of times. While many cruisers are still here,
International Cruisers In Europe with Boats in NZ
International Cruisers in the Pacific
I am currently working with
A number of international vessels in the
a group of
cruisers who are stuck back in Europe or
Pacific have been given exemptions to
North America while their boats remain
enter New Zealand under the refit &
here in NZ.
repairs exemption. This requires owners
some have chosen to sell their boats in New Zealand and fly home, some have sailed to the Pacific and others have shipped their boats home. It has been wonderful meeting many of you during your stay in Aotearoa!
We have created a group called Sailors with COVID Immigration Issues NZ where we share ideas, information, questions and advice. Please join us if you are in this situation and need some support.
to commit to spending at least The group has appealed to the Prime
NZD$50k on repairs and refit when they
Minister and Minister of Immigration for
reach New Zealand.
an exemption to enter the country and get back to their boats - their homes.
We are happy to help give free advice
However at this stage nothing has been
and assistance should you be
forthcoming. We remain hopeful that
considering coming to New Zealand.
once more New Zealanders have been
Please get in touch so we can help
vaccinated that the border restrictions
guide you through the process.
will be relaxed and more people will be allowed in to the country.
We look forward to welcoming you to New Zealand.
Island Cruising NZ is proud to partner with Rocket Guides Cruising Guides for Vanuatu and New Caledonia. Rocket Cruising Guides have expert local knowledge on Anchorages, Routes, Marine Parks, Marinas, Yacht Agents, slipways, yacht repair facilities, supermarkets, marine hardware stores, welders, fitters, sail makers, internet, mobile phones, and more.
Island Cruising NZ Members get a 10% discount on these amazing cruising resources
Island Cruising NZ
Providing cruisers with support, education & connection Social Connection Environmemt · Running yacht rallies around New Zealand and the South Pacific · Running a sustainable and environmentally · Organising social events, activities and social media networks sensitive organisation · Learning about and being respectful of the cultures we visit · Supporting local and global environmental · Promoting positive social impact, community engagement and initiatives to protect the Ocean and the places we visit long-lasting connections with the people we meet · Encouraging sailors to be eco-conscious and reduce their impact on the environment · Promoting Citizen Science projects aimed at ocean health ·
·
Support Being an inclusive, diverse and supportive community · Advocating for and assisting sailors in need · Advice on immigration clearances & formalities · Yacht tracking and shore crew support
Education Assisting sailors to prepare themselves, their vessel and crew for long coastal or offshore voyages · Promoting Safer Boating initiatives · Being a rich pool of knowledge, support and resources for cruisers · Encouraging upskilling and good seamanship
Collaboration Supporting the strategic direction of Yachting New Zealand · Forming strong relationships with yacht clubs to promote longcoastal and offshore races, rallies and cruising events and activities · Promoting Safer Boating and good seamanship alongside Coastguard and Maritime New Zealand · Partnering with Down Under Rally to promote cruising in the South Pacific ·
Communication · Producing a regular newsletter to keep cruisers informed on the latest cruise news, upcoming events and promoting partner products & businesses. · Promoting the New Zealand Marine industry and providing a positive and mutually beneficial connection to their target market · Encouraging and welcoming international sailors to New Zealand
Island Cruising NZ Become a Member · Whether you own a boat already, are planning on buying one soon, have dreams of sailing offshore someday, or are considering sailing to New Zealand, preparing for a voyage requires that you, your crew and your vessel are knowledgeable, equipped and fully self-sufficient. Island Cruising NZ can help you navigate through all the preparation, administration and coordination of a long coastal or offshore voyage and welcome you to the South West Pacific.
For just NZD$75.00 per annum you will receive: Services, information and advice for long coastal and offshore cruisers and racers. Newsletters and regular updates. Exclusive member tips and steps to help you prepare for a long voyage. Access to exclusive discounts from some of the best marine businesses in New Zealand and the South Pacific. ·Social events, great cruising community connections, activities and rallies. Mentoring, training seminars and webinars. Access to our extensive database of local knowledge and advice about sailing in the South Pacific and New Zealand. Assistance with navigating the ever changing customs, immigration and health requirements for cruisers. Advocacy and support when things don't go to plan.
Combined knowledge and connections with the Island Cruising community. Crew matching service for skippers looking for crew or crew looking for a boat.
Join online at www.islandcruising.nz
Island Cruising NZ is proud to partner with Bato Flags who produce high quality hand made linen flags for our adventures in the Pacific. There is a lot of etiquette to take in to consideration when flying a flag from your yacht. One such flag is the Q Flag and is quite relevant in this day and age. Yachts arriving in at a maritime border need to show the yellow Q – Quarantine flag, which officially means “my vessel is healthy and I request free pratique”. On a yacht with mast with spreaders, the Q flag should be flown at the starboard spreader. If the yacht has more than one mast, the flag should be flown from the starboard spreader of the forward mast. Once you have cleared in to the country, you lower your Q flag and then as a gesture of courtesy, yachts should fly the local country flag when they enter and operate in its waters. Not flying the flag of the country you are visiting can be considered very rude in some places, but is even illegal in other countries and you can be fined or have your boat or passports impounded until you comply! Make sure the flag is in good condition – and flown the right way up. Tatty or faded flags can also cause offence and an upside down flag can mean the country is at war. Your home country ensign or national flag should be flown from the stern of a yacht. It should be lowered at sunset or 9.00pm, or earlier if you are leaving the boat. You should only fly them at night if there is sufficient light to show them. They will also last much longer if you don’t fly them continuously. You can order Island Cruising NZ burgee's and other cruising courtesy flags from their website https://www.batoflags.com
The History of Island Cruising NZ The Island Cruising business was started in the 1980’s to provide assistance for sailors wishing to sail from NZ to the Pacific Islands and back. Over the past 30+ years the name Island Cruising has become well known by cruisers not only in New Zealand and the Pacific but also World Wide.
The Island Cruising Association was
John & Lyn Martin were the third
Nigel and Amanda approached Viki
formed by Don and Jenny Mundell
owners. They purchased the business
Moore earlier this year to discuss their
back in the 1980's. The aim at the
in 2007 and escorted rallies all over
plans to sell the business and gauge
time was to attract more cruising sailors to Tonga. Their efforts were
the South West Pacific from on
Viki’s interest.
board their vessel Windflower.
very successful, with many keen
Viki jumped at the opportunity to get
sailors joining them to explore the
John & Lyn enjoyed 10 years running
on board. She plans to continue and
Kingdom and further afield.
rallies throughout the South Pacific.
build on the wonderful work that
During this time they also started
Nigel and Amanda, and other
Brian & Joan Hepburn were next to
writing cruising guides for the South
predecessors of Island Cruising have
take the wheel in the 1995. They
Pacific and building the incredible
achieved over the years.
expanded Island Cruising to take
databases and wealth of information
care of all the documentation and
& resources that Island Cruising has
The business relies on the support of
helping members with everything
on hand to share with members and
marine partners and sailing members,
from checking they are properly
rally participants.
which she hopes to be able to grow
prepared to go offshore to finding
through providing lots of exciting
additional crew. The Hepburns were
John & Lyn sold the business in 2017
opportunities, training, advice,
on hand to see all their cruising
to Nigel and Amanda Richards, who
informative newsletters, discounts,
clients away from New Zealand, and
renamed the business Island Cruising
events and rallies.
they were there at the destination to
NZ.
ensure there are no hassles with officialdom.
Nigel had a lifetime of sailing experience, growing up in the South
The Hepburns, who between them
of England messing about in boats
had more than 100,000 miles of blue-
with his master boatbuilder father.
water experience, introduced
Amanda began sailing when she met
the
comprehensive preparation courses
Nigel 25 years ago. Together they
for their members planning to go
operated Island Cruising from their
offshore for the first time. Courses
vessel Varekai, a Bruce Roberts 53.
included a total how-to-cope exercise that covered everything a
Nigel and Amanda ran two very
would-be sailor could imagine
successful rallies before 2020 and
happening on a bad day at sea.
COVID came along and scuppered
There was even a body-dunking
the Pacific Circuit Rally plans.
session for everyone to show how to get into and out of a liferaft in full
With a house ashore and a horse
wet-weather gear.
riding fan teenage daughter, the Richards family decided a sea-
The Hepburns owned the business for
change shore based life was afoot
11 years and also wrote a number of
and they started putting out the
books about sailing in the South
feelers for someone new to take on
Pacific.
the business to the next leg.
venture 29
Joan & Brian Hepburn
John & Lyn Martin
Viki Moore
Amanda & Nigel Richards
Upcoming for Island Cruising NZ Members
Preparing for a Voyage I am hopeful that the New Zealand and Pacific border restrictions might be more relaxed in 2022. So if you are planning a voyage to the Pacific or perhaps further afield at some stage in the future, there is plenty you can do in now to start preparing and avoid the last minute rush and stress of pulling things together.
We have got a few things planned to
The email 'workshops' will help you
Some of the topics we will cover off
help you start those voyage
make an 'Operations & Maintenance'
include:
preparations, including a Sail South
manual for your vessel and also a
Navigation
rally over our summer season.
Safety Manual - which is
COLREGS
part of the
Cat 1 regulations. We will work
Passage planning
This will be a great opportunity for
through all your on-board systems,
Provisioning
North Island sailors to head South
discuss regular maintenance, and get
Safety gear
and explore the beautiful Abel
you thinking about all the safety gear
Diesel engine basics
Tasman, Marlborough Sounds and
on your boat ensuring it is fit for
Fuel systems
then continuing South for the SailGP
purpose, maintained and stowed
Servicing winches
regatta in Lyttelton at the end of
correctly.
Checking your rig Anchoring tips
January 2022. As well as the emails we will have
Sailing at night
From there you can sail home again
webinars from our partner suppliers
EPIRBs
or alternatively continue South to
who will give some training and
VHF/AIS
Stewart Island and Fiordland.
advice on their products and
Communications
discounts for those who need to
Man Over Board
purchase or upgrade various items.
Fire
Expressions of interest in this rally are
Flooding
invited and we will be working through all the finer details as we get
In addition to that, members will get
Abandon Ship
a better understanding of who is
the opportunity to participate in
Preparing a Grab Bag
interested and which parts of the
Marine Medic and Advanced Sea
Meteorology
South you'd especially like to explore.
Survival courses and hopefully a
Tides
cruising preparation seminar
Docking
weekend later in the year
Plumbing
We will be providing support with
Electrics
getting prepared for the voyage, including passage planning, local
Crew aren't left out either, we will
Batteries
knowledge on the best places to visit,
help you write a resumé, advertise
Charging systems
and some other fun activities
your services to skippers, and you'll
including wine tasting, social
get an insight in to all the work that
Sail trim & new sails
gatherings
goes on behind the scenes to
Boat registration
along the way should you be
prepare for a voyage and be better
Taking on crew
interested.
prepared to help if something breaks
Dinghy tips
or there is an emergency of some
Fog signals
kind.
Biosecurity
and joining in regatta's
From August onwards, we will start
Keeping healthy
Seasickness
our mentoring programme. Members of Island Cruising NZ will be given
The saying is: "The best way to eat an
Coping in emergencies
tips
elephant is one bite at a time" so if
Security
step preparations for a voyage. This
you are planning a voyage at some
Skipper responsibility
will including working through the
stage and want to avoid the last
Log keeping
Yachting NZ Safety Regulations -
minute stress and rush, I invite you to
Search and Rescue
helping you get your boat ready for
join in.
Steering
and advice for some step-by-
Heavy Weather Sailing
either a long coastal or an offshore voyage.
It will be an interactive and
AND MUCH MORE!
collaborative process allowing people to share their ideas and experiences along the way too.
Become a member now to join in www.islandcruising.nz
Become a member www.islandcruising.nz
Rally Benefits Our rallies are for everyone! Families with children, couples, friends, solo sailors, yacht owners and offshore capable power boat owners. Basically, if you're able to take some time out to cruise, then our rallies are for you.
Social events and activities.
Discounts and expertise from our rally partners - respected marine suppliers.
Assistance navigating the changing customs and immigration paperwork and often access to ports you'd otherwise be unable to clear in and out from. Local knowledge and connections.
Seminars, advice and passage planning assistance with preparing your vessel, your crew and your self for the rally The safety of travelling in a group, with tracking and weather routing and advice if things don't go to plan.
Stay with the group of do your own thing, the choice is yours. Crew matching service & management of crew change logistics Technical support
Sustainable Sailing As sailors we are connected to our waterways. We have enjoyed their beauty, been subjected to their power, and have witnessed first hand their degradation. We can help to preserve our local waters is by proactively managing and maintaining our vessels. Sailors for the Sea is an organisation that unites sailors to protect the Ocean. We will be sharing some of their tips for how you can make some small steps which will make a big difference to our Oceans. You can join them on www.sailorsforthesea.org.
Do good things After visiting PNG/Solomons and Vanuatu in role of Naturalist/Guide aboard an expedition ship, Helen Ahern noticed the limited resourcing for schools, with some villages doing without simple items such as paper, pens, and books. With over twenty years experience in education, Helen could see a perfect opportunity to 'make a difference to lives beyond our own". This phrase has since become the driving vision for the Learning Resources for Villages project which is now in its sixth year. The Project sources learning resources from New Zealand schools and ships these to isolated villages in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.
In talking with the local headteachers and teachers, their common wish is for paper, writing tools, and reading books. The inside of classrooms vary depending on the isolation, staff and community support – from sparse with no tables or chairs, to rooms with some visual posters on walls. Sometimes there are no bookshelves, texts, and very limited supplies of paper and pens if there are any at all. It is obvious that schools are poorly resourced in comparison to New Zealand and the schools make do with little. Some communities band together to build solid weatherproof structures, such as libraries, utilising funding streams from countries like New Zealand and Australia. Now the schools are hoping to find books for the shelves. Sometimes the building structure is the easy part with a long wait for resources due to funding, general logistics and/or infrequent shipping!
Children are trilingual with their local oral village language, Pidgin and English. The latter being the teaching medium in schools as it is seen to open opportunities and provide access to further knowledge and learning. Village members are acutely aware that the future of their village ultimately relies upon their young people and although this can be a challenge with such limited resourcing, they remain motivated to support their young generation the best way they know how.
Check out the Facebook Page here
Many island villages are infrequently visited by any 'outsiders'. One village learning resources are delivered to had no recollection of visitors in the living memory of their elders. Life is basic and survival is through subsistance living. Not all villages have a primary school and even if they do attendance is a major issue with children often required to support homelife rather than being in class. Some schools require children to make a long journey each day by dug-out canoe or by foot. Donations have been made from New Zealand schools, individual teachers and authors of instructional reading texts, journals and library books. These are transported to collection schools before being loaded aboard expedition ships bound for the Pacific Islands. This is a team effort from across the country and donations are given in the spirit of generosity knowing that children are the future of all strong communities. Helen continues to visit the islands annually in her role aboard expedition ships. As well as delivering resources, she has found a niche in growing 'coaching and mentoring' relationships with those working in the village schools. This has added to both the Project vision as well as providing authentic, meaningful experiences for the visitors that visit the islands. A symbiotic partnership in action. With the contacts we have with island schools, New Zealand schools and with the support of Heritage Expeditions and Noble Caledonia and now also Island Criuising NZ there is the perfect opportunity to collect, ship and distribute learning resources to these villages and 'make a difference to lives beyond our own'.
Holding Tank Horror Stories Keen racing & cruising sailor Craig Edwards, shares his experiences with marine holding tanks. WORDS BY CRAIG EDWARDS
Like a lot of boat owners, I expect,
Rescue came surprisingly promptly
I paused and contemplated my next
the first time I really got to know my
and took the form of experienced
move. The quickest means of escape
holding tank was when things all went
chandler Aaron Blackmore of Oddies
was to carefully lift each bucket out
horribly wrong.
Marine in Waikawa. “Nah mate, you
through the open forward hatch,
won’t need to haul out” he said, “Just
above my head, to the foredeck. I
For me this happened the day before
bang a softwood plug in from the
thought better of this, realising that I
a major regatta after 2 weeks of
outside and I’ll set you up with a new
only needed to catch a bucket edge
family cruising in the Marlborough
valve”. A simple but effective plan…
on the hatch rim and I would look like
Sounds.
seal the outlet from the outside,
Augustus Gloop after his swim in Mr
holding tank, fully compliant with
disconnect the broken fitting, drain
Wonka’s chocolate lake. So I carefully
Young 88 Class rules, had recently
and dispose of the effluent ashore,
carried each bucket out through the
been installed and had been
reconnect a new fitting and we’re
companionway to the safety of the
preforming well despite a few
back in business.
dock. We were nearly there.
rule of thumb with regard to the size
The bit about draining the holding
But as I made my way to the toilets
of a holding tank should be
tank did take some thought however
ashore I found my path blocked by a
calculated as follows; the size you
and was the part I was least looking
very relaxed gentleman leaning on
think you need x waterline length x
forward to, for obvious reasons. Once
the companionway rail engrossed in a
number of teenagers aboard.
disconnected the contents would
cigarette and conversation with his
Invariably this will equal the size your
“pour” into a bucket with some
mate on the nearby boat. “Excuse
partner told you that you needed but
degree of flow control achieved by
me” I politely asked, seeking to
you didn’t listen because you were
constricting the breather tube to
squeeze past, a bucket in each hand.
trying to save weight/money.
restrict returning air. This was
Ignored, I asked again, a little louder
necessary as my maths has
“Excuse me”. Turning this head this
Anyway, despite the rather frequent
determined that more than one
time he quickly realised the gravity of
need for emptying (yes, 15 litres is too
bucket was required.
the situation, loudly exhaled an
Flying Machine’s new
“capacity” issues. Suffice to say the
small) all was going reasonably well.
expletive that accurately described
That was however until the day
Bracing myself for the odour that was
the hazardous substance I was
before the Lawson’s Regatta when
to envelop me in a stiflingly small
carrying and quickly moved aside. The
the valve handle broke off in my hand
space on a warm Marlborough day, I
offending material was subsequently
during an attempt to drain the
began. What I had not prepared
disposed of and I returned to
holding tank of its contents.
myself for, however, was the sound
complete the task successfully.
that the contents made as it vomited Although no immediate disaster
from the disconnected pipe and
occurred, a moment was required –
gushed violently into the bottom of
severed lever in hand – to consider
the bucket. No noise I can image
the implications; Urgent and
could make me feel quite as sick as
expensive haulout? or race with the
the sound this made. Steeling my
weight of 15 litres of sewage in the
resolve, and swallowing hard, I
bow plus the inevitable
continued and rapidly filled two
inconvenience for the female crew in
buckets.
particular? This was followed by an audible “bugger” or words to that effect.
The principle of a holding tank is
Pressure would mount and a loud
We had two families sharing a
quite simple. Its purpose is to
“pop” would accompany the
modern 44 foot Beneteau with two of
temporarily store your toilet effluent
instantaneous redecoration of the
everything… two wheels, two showers,
so it can be transported away from
interior of your boat in a neutral
two fridges, two heads and even two
sensitive marine environments and
shade of brown. Anyone unfortunate
holding tanks. Luxury beyond
disposed of either in an approved
enough to be in the vicinity would
compare and a significant step up
shore based pumping station or well
find their silhouette printed life size in
from our Young 88. But the most
offshore. For most of us, offshore is
reverse block on the nearest
relaxing aspect of the whole
the easier and often only option. Boat
bulkhead.
experience, or so we thought, was
owners should be aware that
the knowledge that if anything went
regulations about where you can
As the breather will vent unpleasant
wrong it was someone else’s job to fix
dump sewage can vary depending on
odours it pays to think about where
it.
where you are. In Marlborough, our
this goes. Some have a hose that
favourite cruising area, it’s a minimum
takes this up the mast and well away
The turnaround process was
of 500 metres from shore but this is
but in my experience this probably
surprisingly rapid with the boats
currently being reviewed and under
isn’t necessary. In our case I
arriving in and getting a quick clean
the Proposed Marlborough
connected a vent hose to a skin
up before the next group went out.
Environment Plan this is extended to
fitting in the anchor locker on the
Fresh soaps and towels were
1,000 metres from shore or any
bow. This worked well and was
decoratively arranged in each head
marine farm.
sufficiently far away to not be of any
like a five-star hotel bathroom.
nuisance.
However, this didn’t seem to leave
There is no doubt that holding tanks
much time for servicing and
are a very good idea. Not too many
However, I come back to the point
maintenance. As we discovered, the
years ago, rafting up with our sailing
made earlier about the need to
approach seems to be to wait until
friends and their families in a
ensure your holding tank is of
something stops working and then
beautiful anchorage in Queen
sufficient size for your needs. In our
deal with it then. Several of the fleet
Charlotte Sound, the holding tank
case, at 15 litres, it isn’t quite and our
had something go wrong that
issue was always a bit of an elephant
family of four is lucky to last 24 hours.
required a call out at some stage. In
in the room. As I’d glance across the
Of course the way we discovered this
our case it was at the first anchorage
cockpits at our friends enjoying a lazy
was when the tank overflowed out
that we discovered the previous
breakfast, sipping their second cup of
the vent hose and started filling up
charter had blocked one of the
coffee of the day, I’d decide to skip
our anchor locker. This resulted in the
holding tanks. Clearly if you’re near
the morning swim. Fortunately, now,
anchor and warp going over the side
the end of your charter the protocol
holding tanks are the norm not the
and the application of a significant
is to keep quiet about any blockages
exception.
quantity of heavy duty cleaner and
so you don’t get the blame.
numerous buckets of sea water. There are two general types of
Unfortunately, the exercise was
Not to worry they said, “we’ll be out in
holding tank. One that uses the
repeated all too often to the point
the morning and will sort it out for
toilet’s own (or a separate) pumping
where the joke about someone taking
you”. True to word, next day a couple
system to remove the effluent and a
a dump in the anchor locker started
of young aussies with lots of
gravity based system. Ours is a
to wear thin. The solution in the end,
enthusiasm and a fast RIB turned up
gravity model. The tank is positioned
in addition to more careful
ready and armed to do battle with
above the waterline and the toilet
management, was to put an
our wee holding tank issue.
pumps the nasties up to the tank
extension hose from the skin fitting
The first thing I noticed about their
where it’s held until released by
long enough to reach over the side.
solution was that it involved them
opening the seacock.
So whenever we are moored up the
getting out of their RIB and into ours.
hose comes out of the locker and
The reason for this soon became
over the rail looking like a butterfly
obvious. While one boatman held the
proboscis… just in case.
RIB steady against the hull his mate
All
holding tanks require a breather
to enable gasses to escape. While the chemistry of anaerobic
took our dinghy pump and inserted
fermentation isn’t important here the
One of the best things about a
the hose into the holding tank vent,
simple message is – if you install a
cruising charter holiday overseas is
mounted just below the gunwale. He
holding tank without a breather you’ll
the whole ‘all care, no responsibility’
then proceeded to pump air into the
be fitting a sewage filled time bomb
thing. So when the opportunity came
holding tank system in an obvious
in your boat.
along to join a bunch of our friends to
attempt to clear the offending
explore the Whitsundays in a charter
blockage.
fleet we jumped at it.
“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” I asked from the safety of the foredeck. “Yeah, won’t take a minute, mate”. Considerable pumping ensued and I watched as the process appeared not to be as successful as he was hoping. The pressure was no doubt building somewhere as the pumping rate began to slow. He looked across at his mate as if to say “well, what now?” when suddenly the hose end blasted out of the vent followed by a high pressure stream of raw sewerage which hit our friendly rescuer mid chest. He decided it was a good time for a swim while we nodded our new understanding of the reason the maintenance manual stipulates this procedure be carried out in the client’s dinghy.
Modern, electric macerating pumps seem to be the way to go these days. There are certainly advantages with these systems but they do use power, require more water, are more complicated and still require servicing and maintenance. Whatever your system there’s one good trick for looking after it. Other than toilet paper in sparing quantity don’t put anything down there you haven’t first eaten.
If you don't fancy sailing down, you can fly instead!
Club Connections Island Cruising NZ collaborates with yacht clubs around New Zealand & the Pacific to promote cruising activities & events to our huge database of sailors, to provide a place of connection for our members when cruising away from home, and organising combined events and seminars about cruising for the sailors in their local area. The Little Ship Club of Canterbury is one such club. Based out of Naval Point Club in Lyttelton, the Little Ship Club of Canterbury has monthly social events at Naval Point which are hugely popular. On the 3rd Thursday of the month the Little Ship Club meets at Naval Point, the bar is open and the kitchen produces mountains of fish & chips and burgers for the hungry sailors. After a drink and a social catch up, they have a guest speaker, who regales the members with stories of adventures on the high seas. Be it Greenland, Antarctica, across the Pacific, or locally. They also have splicing lessons, seminars on sail trim, passage planning, book launches, and much more. Visiting sailors are welcomed with open arms. The Little Ship Club community rallies around to assist with any help they need while staying in port, giving advice on great anchorages in beautiful Banks Peninsula or further South. One such visitor was solo circumnavigator Bill Norrie who arrived just after the hard lockdown last year. He made many wonderful friends during his stay before sailing home to Canada. If you are heading through Lyttelton, by car or by sea, please make sure you get in touch. You are welcome to join in any time.
You can find them on Facebook Or online on their website
Clive Bennett clive.bennett@seaboatsbrokers.com +64 27 494 9799
Petersen Yacht / Brigantine 70ft traditional style - in survey A beautifully built and maintained vessel, a brigantine with two square sails on the foremast. Built in steel in 1990. Designed by Hans P Petersen in traditional style and using modern methods – apart from her masts and spars – she has been maintained impeccably by a master mariner to undertake long offshore cruises in comfort and in style. Currently in MOSS survey for up to 6 passengers overnight or 10 by day, she has a huge inventory and every system needed for safe and comfortable cruising.
View the full specifications here
18.5m Cruising Ketch A beautiful ocean-going cruising ketch, everything you need for extended passage making and comfortable cruising. Top design and custom built in timber and GRP to a very high standard, and fitted out with all the safety, navigation, and equipment you need. Hard dodger and full set of tropical awnings. Electrics all up to NZ and US electrical standard. Carefully maintained with no expense spared, and with a huge inventory, too long to list here. With all controls from both masts leading to the cockpit, this boat has completed many ocean passages with just two crew. A top boat. Stan Huntingford design, Robert Perry rig, complete refit of interior and all systems 2000-2002 by Legendary Yachts in Washington. Imported into NZ. Completely equipped for offshore passages, ready to go.
View the full specifications here
Publicity, marketing & communications www.marinevoice.net
Island Cruising NZ Become a Partner If you have a quality product or service aimed at the cruising sailor, and you would like to advertise in our next newsletter, we invite you to join us to become a partner of Island Cruising NZ. We will work together to showcase and promote your business to a targeted, qualified audience, and in turn, provide our members with information, training and advice on great deals and the best products to suit their needs.
contact us for more information viki@islandcruising.nz
See you next month!
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