Cruise News July 2023

Cruise News

Newsletter of Island Cruising NZ

In this issue: Voting while overseas

Pacific Rally Update

Sail South this Summer!

Pacific Rally 2024 Launch Japan Rally Update

And lots more!

issue 24

In this issue

July 2023

From the Helm

The latest update from Viki.

Pacific Rally 2023

Some fabulous photos of the adventures so far

Plus our upcoming launch of the Pacific Rally 2024!

Japan Rally Wrap Up

South Island Rally

How about a summer sailing adventure?

Voting when your Cruising

Make sure you have your say this election!

Upcoming Events

Become a Member of Island

Cruising

& Get Great Discounts from Our Sponsors!

Pacific Rally sailors enjoying Tonga

From the helm

I am back to chilly Christchurch after spending a couple of weeks up in Tonga and Fiji with our Pacific Rally group. There were many highlights on this trip and you can check out some of the photos of what we got up to later in the newsletter.

It was my first visit to Vava'u in Tonga and it certainly lived up to being all you'd expect from a cruisers paradise It reminded me of the Marlborough Sounds - numerous secluded bays, steep bush covered hills rising straight up from the deep blue ocean. The sea is teeming with life and one of the highlights for me was doing a whale swim with Beluga dive. We got up close to a couple of incredible humpback whales These enormous mammals were looking us in the eye, seemingly as interested in us as we were in them. An incredible experience and one not to be missed when you next visit.

While in Tonga we teamed up with VEPA to arrange a beach clean and about 45 people turned up to help which was amazing! We collected heaps of rubbish of a beach an awesome effort.

We were also so very warmly welcomed to Vava'u by our Port Officer Greg Just at Café Tropicana, and the teams at the Kraken Bar and Mango Cafe where we hosted a number of great events.

Another highlight was a visit to the Ene'io Botanical gardens where we enjoyed a tour of the garden, followed by a fabulous Tongan feast and some great entertainment that had us all up dancing. We also had a really interesting demonstration of all the plants and their uses from making Kava to producing food and weaving houses

My short time in Tonga was packed full of incredible experiences and I'd highly recommend a visit to Tonga if you haven't already been before.

But Fiji beckoned and with a perfect weather window opening up, 36 rally boats cleared out of Vava'u bound for Lomaloma in Vanua Balavu in the Lau group - South Eastern Fiji

This is not a normal port of entry, but I'd arranged with our agent in Fiji - Yacht Help, to fly the officials out for the week to facilitate the special clearance for rally participants

This is a massive logistical exercise, but it is fantastic for the yachts as otherwise they'd have to sail straight past the stunning Lau group and sail for another 120NM to Savusavu for clearance and then hang around there to wait for a suitable weather window to get south again to this amazing and remote place.

Once we'd cleared in we had a night at Mbatavu Harbour and met Tony the owner of the Plantation and Vuda and CopraShed marinas Then round to Daliconi village for our sevusevu before exploring the stunning Bay of Islands.

Susui Village in the south of the island put on a fabulous event for the rally participants where they got to experience village life From collecting and preparing food, visiting the school, learning how to weave and exploring the historical sites.

The rally participants also got stuck in and attempted to help repair the village generator and Oscar from Laura Dawn fixed the school computers

Thanks to Jacob from Susui village for coordinating the fantastic village event!

Also special thanks to David & Karen on In Recess for having me on board for a week for the crossing from Tonga to Fiji and then exploring the area I had a wonderful time with them and cruising with the rest of the rally for a few days

Just as the weather started to pack up, I caught the once a week flight out with the Officials back to Nadi where I enjoyed a day out at Cloud 9 to catch up with some of the rally participants over that side, before heading for home.

I am now in the process of setting up the 2024 rally and it is shaping up to be an awesome event! I've got a couple of launches coming up which I'd love you to attend and there will also be a session online. Check out the details later in the newsletter.

I am also about to launch the Rally to NZ for international boats wanting some extra support for their trip to New Zealand and also the South Island Rally this summer! So heaps of awesome sailing adventures coming up

If you are planning on joining us in 2024, it is worth joining the rally early to take advantage of all the fantastic pre-departure inclusions and discounts from our sponsors. Also now is a great time to be getting all the big jobs done on your boat before the influx of sailors from the tropics arrive in October/November.

Happy sailing!

Cheers Viki

27 July - Sailing Raoul, Vanuatu, Micronesia - Naval Point Club Lyttelton - 7pm

14 August - SeaKeepers - Citizen Science Projects for cruisers - webinar online

22 August - Pacific Rally 2024 Launch - Devonport Yacht Club - 7pm

23 August - Nalawan Festival - Vanuatu

24 August - The Golden Globe Race - a talk at Naval Point Club in Lyttelton 7pm

6 - 10 September - Fiji Regatta Week at Musket Cove

14 September - Loyalty Islands Entry - New Caledonia - Register ASAP

21 September - Pacific Rally 2024 Launch - Naval Point Club Lyttelton 7pm

27 September - Overseas voting in the NZ General election starts

14 October - Big Mama's Yacht Club, Tonga - End of Season party

15 October - Sail to NZ & Pacific Rally returns to New Zealand (weather permitting)

27 December - or at your leisure South Island Rally begins

2024

23 - 26 Feb - Millennium Cup Superyacht Regatta - Auckland

23 - 24 March - Auckland SailGP

5 May - Island Cruising Pacific Rally first group departs for the South Pacific

9 June - Groupama Race - New Caledonia

10 July - Island Cruising Rally - Lau Group Entry

12 October - Americas Cup starts in Barcelona

15 October - Island Cruising Rally returns to New Zealand

How to Vote How to Vote How to Vote

IntheupcomingNZElectionwhenyou'recruising

Dear Viki

The overseas voting period for the 2023 General Election starts on Wednesday 27 September 2023 and your sailors overseas can download and complete your voting papers from the website vote.nz.

This is the recommended option for voting from overseas. To use this voting service, you need to be correctly enrolled before you can download your voting papers.

You can check your enrolment information here:- Enrol or update online | Vote NZ

The links to the download and upload voting papers services will be made available on the Home | Vote NZ website from Wednesday 27 September 2023 (NZ time).

Additionally, complete information on how to vote from overseas, including postal voting, the locations of overseas voting places and the options for returning your voting papers, will be made available on the Home | Vote NZ website in August 2023.

We will have voting places at the NZ High Commissions around the Pacific Islands, including Niue, Tonga, Fiji, Kiribati, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia.

We would really encourage the Island Cruising members and rally participants to use the download / upload service when they are in port during the election period, or visit a voting place if there is one nearby.

Please feel free to contact me directly if you require any further information.

Thank you.

Ngā mihi John.

B I G M A M A ' S PARTY AT PANGAIMOTU end

YACHT CLUB - TONGATAPU

SATURDAY 14 OCTOBER

2023

The perfect place to wait for a weather window prior to joining the Sail to New Zealand Rally

NEW ZEALAND’S MILLENNIUM CUP SUPERYACHT REGATTA MOVES TO AUCKLAND

The South Pacific’s superyacht regatta will move from the Bay of Islands to Auckland next year, running from 23-26 February.

New Zealand’s loved Millennium Cup regatta will move to Auckland next year, it has been announced. “As our sister regatta the Superyacht Cup Palma gets underway this week, we’re very pleased to share the NZ Millennium Cup will add its name to the superyacht regattas raced in the heart of major cities,” says organiser Stacey Cook. “When the New Zealand Millennium Cup is raced from 23 - 26th February 2024, it will be with Auckland, the City of Sails, as its backdrop.” The regatta is known for fun, exciting racing with a Kiwi flavour all of its own. Moving the re-gatta to Auckland means it will be adjacent to the country’s largest superyacht marinas and comes as part of a summer of events supported by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited. In recent years the regatta has been raced in the picturesque cruising ground of the Bay of Islands in the country’s north, with the move to Auckland ensuring superyacht owners can fly directly to Auckland and begin racing in this world-renowned sailing destination.

New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland sits on an isthmus between two large harbours with the natural playground long-revered by sailors. With thriving hospitality and entertainment pre-cincts fringing the water, it’s a location which lends itself to world-class regattas and enjoya-ble events both on and off the ocean.

Entry to the regatta will open soon, with entry forms available online from millenniuncup.com once entry is released.

With a friendly boating mad team always on hand to offer practical advice, tips, and make product recommendations, we’ve got the answer for you. Our chandlery will ensure you get back out on the water, faster!

For any boating problems, come see the team at All Marine.

Always on hand find that hard-to-find boat part you’ve been searching for – even if it’s not on our shelves – we’re sure to know where to find it. Priding ourselves on stocking our great product range and having fantastic service, shop online or come on down in store and have a yarn.

Don’t see what you need?

Give us a call, we’ll be happy to help.

Fiji Regat w events added to the schedule, the 39th edition of Fiji s largest annual regatta is likely to be another record breaker and will take place from 6-10 September 2023.

We have a packed schedule of events and entertainment this year for competitors, family and friends so register early to ensure you don’t miss out. With live entertainment each evening, the Friday night theme this year is 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea - sure to be a highlight! “With our safe and protected deep-water harbour, moorings and marina facilities, not to mention our beautiful resort facilities and the amazing Musket Team, we are ready to offer a world-class regatta. Even if you are not participating in the regatta, it’s a fantastic time for everyone staying at the Resort to join in the party”, says Musket Cove Resort’s Manager Joe Mar

“We are grateful to all of our international and local sponsors who have come on board to make this year’s regatta a success and we extend a big Bula welcome to participants from around the world to this year’s event”, adds Company Director William Moffat.

Fiji Regatta Week at Musket Cove will be an incredible event that any sailing enthusiast should consider attending. With our beautiful location, world-class facilities, and fun events, it's sure to be a memorable experience.

Interested yacht owners, participants and sponsors are encouraged to contact the resort and the Musket Cove Yacht Club. The Notice of Race and entry information for Fiji Regatta Week can be found here on the regatta’s website.

Rally Kids Rally Kids

We've got over 35 children on the rally this year, the families have teamed up and they're all having a wonderful time together with the other boats and with the locals

DoGoodThings

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

The Pacific Rally participants have been doing some amazing things in the Islands recently.

Not only does helping others make their lives a little easier - it also makes you feel really good too!

We transported donated clothing from Rotary in Opua up to Rotary in Tongatapu, we also transported Days for Girls kits up to Fiji for Sea Mercy Fiji to distribute to the islands.

We had around 45 people participate in a beach clean in Vava'u Tonga which was run in conjunction with the Vava'u Environmental Protection Agency.

Oscar Smith spent the day at the local school helping them to repair a number of laptops, and Mike Corboy and helpers have been working on the Susui Island generator to try and get that running a little better.

The rally kids have been attending local school, and a large group of r fundraising event at Susui Village to help them to fundraise for repair

Thanks heaps for being awesome everyone!

36 Degrees are pleased to announce our new sponsorship with Island Cruising NZ for 2023! Island Cruising is an amazing New Zealand based organisation run by Viki Moore. They offer a range of rallies, workshops, cruiser support, and other services from New Zealand across the Pacific.

Island Cruising provide outstanding support services to those on the rally, which includes weather routing, passage planning, on passage support, and advice for clearing customs. Perhaps most importantly, knowledge sharing from those who have a wealth of experience to those making their first passage to the islands.

Cruising preparation workshops include long term cruising preparation, passage making & planning, maintenance navigation, safety regulations for Cat 1 & 2 cruising and much more! To top this off, members enjoy special rates on a wide range of marine products and services as well as access to Crewseeker, for skippers & crew looking to join boats on a passage. Here at 36 Degrees, we love welcoming the cruisers back into Opua in October November each year, and now we are excited to share the journey and connect with the Bluewater cruising circuit offshore!

Broker Robbs of 36 Degrees will be joining the rally for a second time this year. Last year he departed Opua to Fiji with his family, spending four months exploring the islands. “We got huge value from all the cruising tips, tricks and logistics. The WhatsApp group was awesome. It was great to meet so many adventurous spirits sailing overseas.” This year they plan to visit Tonga for a month before heading across to Fiji. 36 Degrees are pleased to offer a workshop and webinar to members as a part of our sponsorship.

“I’m super keen give something back to the community of Bluewater cruisers and to be supporting new people getting into boating,” says Robbs, who will be conducting the webinar. Robbs gave a seminar last season to those who arrived in NZ on heavy weather offshore sail trim and safety techniques on board. He has been a bowman and a trimmer on offshore races and loves to share tips and tricks to keep boats stable and on course.

Fair winds to all those departing on their offshore adventures soon, we hope to see you up in Tonga, Fiji, and at Musket Cove Race Week!

VANUATU MISSION

20% discount for Island Cruising members!

Become a Member!

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Join Island Cruising For just $95.00 per year

& thanks to our amazing sponsors you'll receive:

Weekly online workshops to help you get ready to go on a long coastal or offshore voyage.

Invitations to exclusive webinars with marine industry experts

Access to our CrewSeeker page

Free digital subscription to Boating NZ Magazine

Discounted courtesy flags from Bato Flags

20% off PredictWind subscriptions

Discount off Hyrdrovane self steering systems

Discount off Marine Medic and Cat 1 Medical Kits from Oceania Medical

10% off Advanced Sea Survival Courses with Skipper Training

Discount off VHF courses with Coastguard Boating Education

Up to 15% off at Cater Marine

Up to 10% off at Kiwi Yachting - Safety at Sea

10% off Radix Nutrition meals

10% discount off SeaLogs

Discounts on Rocket - South Pacific Cruising Guides

Discounts on Helly Hansen sailing clothing

10% discount off charts and cruising guides from TransPacific Marine

Yacht Delivery Solutions - special deals

15% discount off Buoycatcher

Discounts off global data roaming and internet booster antennas from Global Marine

Expert advice and assistance from Dalwyn at House of Travel

Discounted rates on mooring ropes and yacht braid

10% discount on Sailutions - rigging hardware

$300 off watermakers from Open Ocean

Special rates at Port Whangarei Marine Centre

Special rates from Marine Diesel Solutions

Discounts at Dockland 5 Marine

10% discount off See-Level

5% discount on Global Dive courses

Special rates with Zoom Sails

Discounts on electronics & communications gear from Wright Electronics

Pacific Rally Sponsors

Marine Reserve in Matuku "Tabu

By Birgit Hackl

Awareness for the need to protect the environment and its resources is slowly growing in Fiji. “Conservation International” and the “Lau Seascape Strategy” are doing studies and setting ambitious goals to protect the ocean and its wildlife, but when we talk to people in the villages of remote islands, we still get the impression that sustainability remains an abstract concept. Many of the reefs are horribly overfished and empty especially those of islands with a town or resort nearby. Fishermen go out every day (and worse, every night) to catch the last, little reef fish to make a profit today, without contemplating what they’ll do tomorrow. Over the last years electricity has arrived in the remotest areas of Fiji and with the installation of freezers the fishermen of those islands also get the chance to export fish and make some quick money.

Unfortunately the reefs cannot provide enough fish for that kind of economy. While the ocean provided for centuries to the islanders who were doing subsistence fishing (and farming), modern fishing techniques and export deplete the resources of a small island within a few years.

We have been cruising in the South Pacific for 10 years and have spent lots of time snorkeling reefs in French Polynesia, Tonga, the Cook Islands and now in Fiji. Unfortunately many of the reefs are nearly empty and without herbivore fish to clean them, the corals get overgrown by algae. Quite often we return from a dive sad and depressed. But sometimes we find a healthy reef that still has a diversity of wildlife and then we try to talk to the fishermen about the necessity to limit fishing/harvesting and protect at least certain areas to ensure the future of the eco-system (important for the world), but also the future of subsistence fishing (very important for them). If they just smile about our naive “touristy” concerns, we don’t get into an argument, it’s not worth it. But if they are interested, show that they have noticed changes and are concerned about them, we are happy to share what we have witnessed on other islands across the Pacific, show examples of islands that are faring well due to careful resource management and others where now frantic protection efforts are made, but where it’s too late already and the reefs are dead and empty.

The people of Matuku in the southwestern Lau (Moala Group) have made a big step towards sustainable fishing by installing 3 big “Tabu” no-fishing zones around their island. We visited the island three times over the last year, chatted with the villagers, took a presentation about sustainability to the local school and had meetings with the chiefs and headmen. Soon they agreed that they had to take measures to ensure a future for their fishing grounds Matuku has fertile gardens, but fish is nevertheless one of the cornerstones of their nutrition. First they wanted to install tabu areas for a limited time, then they contemplated only prohibiting night-time fishing, but in the end we managed to persuade them that having a complete, permanent fishing ban for a big area is the most efficient way to protect the fish and ensure good fishing for the community around the limits of such a “tabu” area. The smaller ones on the southern and eastern side of the island are difficult to visit by sailboat, but the biggest one is located just off the main pass on the western side of the island with a wonderfully protected anchorage in the bay of Lomati close by!

If you cruise in the Lau Islands of Fiji, make a stop-over in Matuku, enjoy the wonderful snorkeling, praise the islanders for their environmental efforts and leave a donation to help them maintain and patrol their “tabu” no-fishing zones: the islanders are worried that fishing expeditions from the mainland or from neighbouring islands may come to plunder their reefs at night… If you can’t make it to Matuku, but would still like to support the project, visit our blog www.pitufa.at for a donation!

As cruisers we live close to nature, visit many different places, can compare them and witness how they change over time. Too many of the reefs are overfished as it is, so cruisers really shouldn’t deplete the reef fish even more during their visits. However, a few islands are still untouched and teeming with life, but wouldn’t it be much nicer to just marvel at the diversity of life and watch their behaviour instead of going spearfishing? If you just take one grouper and one coconut crab, imagine what happens if all boats following in your wake will do the same.

Our advice to fellow sailors is to live after the old motto “take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footsteps”. If you’d like to take this philosophy a bit further and have a positive influence, you could also try to talk to islanders about fishing and raise awareness for sustainability.

Rally to Japan

The Rally to Japan concluded last month when the boats - Gannet, Bob and Atisha all safely arrived in Kurashiki City in Japan.

Andrew McGeorge was the designer of this ambitious rally and had been his dream for many years. Andrew is on the Sister-City committee between Christchurch and Kurashiki City and the 50th anniversary of the sister-city relationship seemed like the perfect excuse to run this rally. When I purchased Island Cruising, I offered to help support Andrew with the project and assist with the logistics, paperwork and administration of the rally.

We had heaps of interest when we first launched the rally, but preparing for a long voyage like this comes with many hurdles, and the logistics and timeframe for some boats made things a bit of a challenge and the group of 8 starters gradually dwindled to four boats, and then three made the final voyage.

They departed Whangārei in late March, waiting a week for a suitable weather window for the quick hop up to Vuda Marina in Fiji where they were very well taken care of. After a quick stop with some repairs, and reprovisioning, they set off on the longest leg of the voyage. Around 3000NM taking about three weeks from Fiji to Guam.

A typhoon developed in their track and two of the boats took shelter at Chuuk in Micronesia and Gannet altered course and fell in behind the typhoon track. Unfortunately it made landfall in Guam which scuttled our plans for stopping there to collect crew and parts, and instead we quickly pivoted and headed for Saipan instead where they were very warmly welcomed and entertained for a few days.

From there the plan was to head to Chichijima in Japan and clear in there, however another typhoon developed on their heels, so again, plans were changed and they continued on to Wakayama where they cleared in to Japan with around 5000NM under their keels since departing NZ.

From there it was some interesting sailing across the Inland Sea to Kurashiki where they were warmly welcomed and entertained with the Sister City committee.

The three boats are now planning on enjoying Japan and spending some time exploring this incredible part of the world before heading for Alaska.

Well done to Andrew & Liz McGeorge, Bruce Maunsell - who sailed the longest passage solo, and to Roger & Jenny Fenwick the sailors on the rally and the crew who joined them along the way too.

Special thanks to Peter Mott - Passage Guardian & Bob McDavitt - aka MetBob for their daily checkins and guidance. Also to the Christchurch Sister City Committee, Kirk from Konpira Consulting, Adam & Jashinta at the Copra Shed Marina, Cait from the Marianas Yacht Club in Guam, Paula & Stu in Saipan, the Kurashiki Sister City Committee and everyone else who followed their adventures!

rally to Japan

rally to Japan

Pacific Rally 2024

DEPARTING 6 MAY 2024

Pacific Rally launch - Devonport Yacht Club - 22 August 2024

Or join our online webinar on Monday 28 August 2024

Or check out all the details and register now on our website

“Maldives ; A small country , with a big heart”

The Maldives Yacht Rally 2024

Are you ready for the ultimate adventure? Join us for the 3rd Edition of Savaadheeththa Dhathuru, the annual sailing voyage presented by the Maldives Integrated Tourism Development Corporation (MITDC). This extraordinary event is designed to showcase the unparalleled beauty, diversity, and rich culture of the Maldives, exclusively experienced within the local islands.

"Savaadheeththa Dhathuru" Maldives Yacht Rally is an annual sailing event organized by MITDC, where sailors from across the globe participate in a journey across the Maldives seas. This rally allows participants to make stops at local islands, explore the culture and traditions, and experience the local lifestyle. The main focus and aim of this event are to promote nautical tourism as well as local island tourism. After the successful completion of two editions, the rally is now preparing for its highly anticipated third edition.

Following the resounding success of the previous two editions, we are thrilled to set sail for the third edition of Savaadheeththa Dhathuru Brace yourself for an experience like no other as we delve deeper into the heart of the Maldives, revealing its hidden treasures and untold stories. This year, we celebrate the theme of "Maldives: Small Country with a , Big Heart." Discover how this captivating nation with its idyllic islands and warm-hearted locals offers an experience that is larger than life. Immerse yourself in the enchanting culture, vibrant heritage, and remarkable hospitality that define the Maldives.

Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable journey! The rally is scheduled to commence on February 10th and sail until February 29th. Covering over 10 picturesque islands and anchoring at 7 breathtaking points, we invite you to join us as we navigate through the wonders of the Maldives. Picture yourself sailing amidst breathtaking vistas and exploring the unspoiled beauty of the Maldives. This year's rally will start from K.Kudagiri, crossing the equator, and will end at the southernmost point of Maldives, S.Gan. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey through these hidden gems.

Prepare for a wealth of extraordinary experiences as we voyage towards the southern region of the Maldives From crossing the equator to riding the thrilling waves at the best surfing spots of Maldives, snorkelling with gentle nurse sharks, exploring the famous shipwreck of Vaavu Atoll, reaching the southernmost point of the world, visiting the island where Star Wars Rouge One was filmed, indulging in exhilarating big game fishing, visiting the 2nd World War Royal Air Force Station at S. Gan, and discovering the best tiger shark dive spots, every moment will leave you breathless.

Our previous participants have described Savaadheeththa Dhathuru as a golden opportunity to explore the true essence of the Maldives. In 2024, we aim to surpass all expectations, providing you with an unparalleled chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture, heritage, and astounding hospitality of the locals. Let us guide you on a transformative journey that will create memories to last a lifetime.

MITDC invites all yachtsmen to embark on this extraordinary voyage of discovery. Experience the true essence of the Maldives by immersing yourself in its diverse society, vibrant culture, unique lifestyle, astonishing biodiversity, and rich history. Prepare to sail into the heart of the Maldives, where adventure and enchantment await.

The Savaadheeththa Dhathuru Maldives Yacht Rally is not just a sailing event; it's an opportunity to connect with the soul of the Maldives. With its stunning landscapes, crystalclear waters, and warm-hearted people, this event offers an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Join us on this incredible journey and discover the magic of the Maldives like never before.

Check out the website for more information

A new web-based app called the Marine Vessel Portal (MVP) has been developed to help New Zealand boat owners, marinas and councils reduce the risk of marine pest incursions. The MVP is already a key tool in marine biosecurity management, recording surveillance activity, findings and the presence of marine pests in bays and harbours from Northland to Bay of Plenty. It also records information about the regional hull surveillance programmes, including biofouling levels and pest species found on boats during routine inspections. By signing up to the MVP boat owners and marina operators can be empowered to better manage their biofouling risk.

The Portal will include:

Information about a boat’s recent hull maintenance or cleaning can be entered into the MVP by boat owners, maintenance contractors, haul outs and dive companies. The MVP also contains results from hull surveys undertaken by council marine biosecurity teams in Northland, Auckland, Bay of Plenty and Waikato.

When a vessel arrives in a new location marina staff will be able to see when a boat was cleaned, its antifoul coatings, and details of recent inspections. This, along with talking with the boat owner about where a vessel has traveled, will help them decide if a boat presents a marine biosecurity risk or not.

How to get started

Boat owners can claim their boat in the system by entering some basic information about their vessel, including its name, description, usual location and their contact details. Uploading a photo is also helpful.

Once submitted, our team will work to match it up with a boat already in the system and ask the boat owner to confirm the match - or they will set up a new entry if needed.

With access to the MVP, owners can see details of past dive inspections of their vessel including any the level of fouling and marine pest species found. They can also add their own information about their vessel’s antifouling maintenance

Participating marina operators can view this information, negating the need for vessel owners to carry/email documents before arriving at a marina or in some cases, between regions.

The Marine Vessel Portal is an app developed and shared by Northland Regional Council, Auckland Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Waikato Regional Council. These councils are empowered to collect information about vessels by the Biosecurity Act, but participation by boat owners is optional.

When a boat owner claims their boat they will need to provide permission for the identity of their vessel to be confirmed with their marina operator (if applicable) and will have an opportunity to review and accept a Privacy Agreement. A two-step authentication process will protect the integrity of vessel data.

Click here to sign yourself up to the portal.

Learn More about Marine Biosecurity

This year's marine biosecurity webinar series will focus on two key challenges we face in the fight against marine pests: funding critical marine biosecurity work, and filling the gaps in our clean hull framework. There is also a special session for council and agency staff.

These webinars are designed to prompt conversation, discussion and broader understanding of key issues involved and we encourage industry to attend.

Check out the upcoming Marine Biosecurity webinars here.

Imagine you are half way between New Zealand and Fiji, and your engine stops working, your electrical system is no longer charging your batteries, you've sprung a leak or your steering system fails.

Would you have the skills and knowledge to be able to troubleshoot the problems and undertake some repairs?

Learning some key techniques, understanding how your systems work together and ensuring you've got the right tools and spare parts on board your vessel can mean you get back underway quicker and prevent issues arising in the first place.

Join Ross Porter's Pearls Of Boating Wisdom course to learn more about maintaining and repairing your essential systems on board.

Beviamo Yacht Charters - the business or yacht alone

Seldom does the opportunity to acquire a going concern yacht charter business based in the pristine Marlborough Sounds become available.

What is for sale:

· Luxury Bavaria C42 cruising yacht currently in survey for commercial operations

· Fully functioning web site and domain name and addresses

· Marketing brochures

If a yacht charter business doesn’t appeal, the yacht is available for separate sale without the business assets

Beviamo has cruised the pacific extensively and has only ever been chartered on ‘Skippered only’ basis by its owner

Beviamo has been owned by us since its importation in 2005 and was commissioned using only the best marine fittings and equipment.

She is a Registered NZ ship and suitable to cruise offshore ‘as is’ requiring only a Cat 1 inspection prior to departure.

Sail away price NZD$270,000 ono Visit us at www.beviamo.co.nz

For more information please contact the owner Ross Anderson +64 21709579

10%DiscountFor IslandCruising Members

Waikawa Boating Club

Victron’s releases powerful new Ekrano GX

Victron’s powerful new next generation Ekrano GX allows owners and skippers to easily monitor and control all of their vessel’s power sources on one large 7-inch touchscreen display.

The successor to the Color Control GX, the new Ekrano GX enables the instant monitoring of battery state of charge, power consumption, power harvest from the PV, generator activity and mains status. With both digital and analogue inputs, it also makes it easy to check tank levels and monitor temperatures, control the shore power input current limit, (auto) start/stop generators or change any setting to optimise the system. It also simplifies following up on alerts, performing diagnostic checks and remotely resolving challenges.

With double the CPU power and offering both display and connectivity in one compact, attractive unit, the multi-purpose Ekrano GX delivers complete control in the most diverse of applications. It provides solutions for marine, RV, off-grid and back-up systems, enabling the automatic switching on or off of generators and the delaying of ignition until the end of “quiet” periods. In energy storage systems, it keeps back-up batteries at 100%, kicks-in during power-cuts and diverts excess (solar) power to self-consumption, saving money. It also keeps vital systems functioning flawlessly on RV and emergency vehicles.

With a fully waterproof front and able to be recessed, the Ekrano GX can be installed in various locations and, thanks to its wireless and Bluetooth capabilities, it gives owners and skippers complete oversight and control from wherever they are through either the Victron Remote Management portal (VRM) or the popular VictronConnect app.

The new Ekrano GX comes with two fully functional VE.Can ports, a galvanically isolated VE.Can port, three tank level inputs, two temperature inputs and two digital inputs.

Victron’s powerful new next generation Ekrano GX is available now through Lusty and Blundell’s nationwide network of leading marine dealers and in L&B’s showrooms in Albany, on Auckland’s North Shore; Whangarei and Tauranga.

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

Hydrovane What do people say about theirs?

By Sarah Curry of Hydrovane International Marine

If you sail with an autopilot, you'll already know how awesome they are, especially when you sail for long distances short handed, however as with all electronics on board, you need to consider the power demands on running things 24/7, and what your strategy would be if the equipment failed or if you were unable to generate the power to run it.

Steering issues can and do happen, so having a back up emergency steering solution is essential for going offshore.

A Hydrovane is an awesome solution It uses no power, is a back up for if your steering or rudder fails, it is silent, stylish and can be installed on most vessels

Check out the Hydrovane options here.

Offshore Marine Medic

Two-dayOffshoreMedicalCoursecustomisedtoprovidestudentswiththebasicsrequiredfor OffshoreCruisingCoursealsocoversahandoveroftheOffshoreMedicalKit(CAT1)andhowto useit.

Upcomingdates:

8-9February2024-Auckland

9-10March2024-Auckland

11-12April2024-Auckland

18-19May2024-Auckland

orcontactusformoreoptionsincludingChristchurch&Northland

$39500fornon-members10%discountforIslandCruisingmembers+discountonCat1Medical Kits Registeronlinehere

2000 Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 411 | Blind Date

Blind Date is a beautiful three-cabin owner ’ s version that is well equipped for comfortable cruising. The Beneteau 411, crafted by the renowned Groupe Finot, exemplifies a true marriage of performance and beauty. With the bulb / fin keel, maximum stability and efficiency on all points of sail are achieved by her low centre of gravity. The yacht’s rigging has just been done with a brand-new set of Dacron sails. More info here.

2014 Moody 41AC | Stella II

Stella II is a true contemporary classic, a Bill Dixon-designed Moody 41 Aft Cockpit featuring all the beautiful lines of yesteryear but with the performance and control of a modern cruiser. With her almost plumb bow the yacht’s water line length is extended, and performance is increased by the modern design of her hull, keel and rudder. However, it is always important that when you are rowing back to shore, you look back at your yacht with a sense of pride and pleasure. Stella II certainly delivers this. Click here for more

2013 Dufour 405 GL | Just Kiddin

Set up for cruising, Just Kiddin was purchased with all the factory options, including plush washable leatherette cushions on the large U-shaped lounge and the settee/nav station opposite, upsized 55hp Volvo diesel with low hours, bow thruster and electric halyard winch.

More details here.

I have been based in New Zealand for the past 5 years after cruising on and off for 8 years, having sailed the East Coast of Africa, the West and East Coasts of Australia as well as Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. My wife and I live on our boat and are still fully involved in the cruising lifestyle. I am a Licensed Immigration Adviser for New Zealand and, as a yachtie, have a particular interest in helping yachties with their immigration issues. Island Cruising NZ Members get a 30% discount

10% discount!

Radix Nutrition is a generous sponsor of the Pacific Rally and have provided a variety of meals and smoothies in the rally packs.

Radix makes delicious meals, ideal for when it's rough or when you need to refuel on the go. Quick, easy, nutritious, delicious. Radix meals will be provided in the Pacific Rally goody packs.

Discounts for Island Cruising members too.

Click here to order - discount code SAILNZ10

FOR SALE

Fiorentino Offshore 12’ Para-anchor.

This unit has never been deployed. Fiorentino's Offshore parachute sea anchors are built to withstand extreme weather. This is the only parachute sea anchor to self-adjust in heavy seas and strong ocean currents. It is also the only sea anchor that absorbs massive shock loads without blowing panels or twisting parachute lines. Thus no collapsing canopies, which can make quite a difference when cruising in storm conditions. The Offshore anchor is ideal for short-term outings and long distance offshore cruising. The Offshore Anchor also allows boaters to rest, ride out the storm without worry. Our Offshore Anchor is the only compact anchor built with tough flexible 8 oz. nylon fabric, strong commercial fishing lines and all stainless hardware. Also includes built-in custom sized canopy weights, patented stainless steel Para-Ring that prevents chafe and canopy tumbling during heavy weather. Fiorentino paraanchors are perfectly weighted down so they can be deployed with or without a deployment bag. The Fast PAK stowage bag allows you to roll the para-anchor up fast just like a sleeping bag! Plus, it stows the trip line and anchor all in one bag. These units retail New for £1000 ($NZ 2038.00) or more. For sale

$NZ 1200.00

Windpilot Pacific MF3 for Tiller steering

This is a slightly used Tillerpilot (setup on yacht for testing purposes) in almost “as new” condition. It came with the 36ft yacht I bought packaged in the original box. There is excellent after sales service with this popular well proven design. For more information, check out the website for videos and setup instructions or email the manufacturer directly. peter@windpilot.com www.windpilot.com

Price of new unit: €3600 ($NZ 6495.84 + GST). \ Price for this unit $NZ 4400.

I also have a storm jib and Tri Sail

For all items I can be contacted at: David Woodward (Auckland) 0294929753 Davesue222@gmail.com

A piece of awesome Americas Cup yachting memorabilia from 1995. $1500.00 looking at OFFERS

Please contact Brad Maclure 0274362990

For Sale

Sea Anchor Para 24 foot Hatteras Model .Complete System - never used (thankfully!) so in excellent condition Suitable for vessels from 40 to 90ft Came off a 50ft 20 tonne cruising yacht. Comes with 150 metres of 16mm nylon braid complete with thimbles and primary float and retrieval line and float Adds considerable peace of mind to ocean passages.

$1600

billmathews.21@gmail.com

Highfield Dinghy

2016 Highfield CL 340 Hyperlon for sale. Includes Yamaha F25 four stroke, dinghy wheels, navigation light, foot pump, oars, Mantis anchor, water/fuel seperator, davit lifting lines, and hyperlon cleaning materials.

ARE YOU OFFSHORE READY?

Island Cruising NZ members receive weekly emails with tips and suggestions on how to go about getting prepared for a long coastal or offshore voyage. There are webinars, videos, templates, downloads, and in person get togethers.

Suitable for boat owners or crew members, experienced sailors or beginners alike You can start any time, and work through the topics at your own pace. Join in any time. Just $95.00 per year and take advantage of our great sponsors deals too!

Workshop topics include:

Getting organised - a system for storing all the information for your Passage Plan, Safety Manual, Maintenance log, Important

Documents, Boating Qualifications and more Your vessel information - a template for collating all the specifications of your boat

The Cat 1 & 2 Regulations

Boat Registration

Reporting Incidents

Insuring your boat

VHF & MMSI

Meteorology - Forecasts

Communication options at Sea

Rig - rules for Cat 1 & 2

Sails for offshore - the Cruising Wardrobe

Fire Safety

Anchoring

Your Maintenance Records

Provisioning

EPIRB's

Your sailing resumé

Navigation

COLREGS

Passage planning

Provisioning

Safety gear

Diesel engine basics

Fuel systems

Servicing winches

Checking your rig

Anchoring tips

Sailing at night

EPIRBs

VHF/AIS

Communications

Man Over Board

Fire

Flooding

Abandon Ship

Preparing a Grab Bag

Meteorology

Tides

Docking

Plumbing

Electrics

Batteries

Charging systems

Keeping healthy

Sail trim & new sails

Boat registration

Taking on crew

Dinghy tips

Fog signals

Biosecurity

Seasickness

Coping in emergencies

Security

Skipper responsibility

Log keeping

Search and Rescue

Steering

Heavy Weather Sailing

AND MUCH MORE!

Discounts for ICNZ Members!

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$95.00 per annum you will receive:

Services,informationandadviceforlongcoastaland offshorecruisersandracers.

Newslettersandregularupdates.

Exclusivemembertipsandstepstohelpyoupreparefor alongvoyage.

Accesstoexclusivediscountsfromsomeofthebest marinebusinessesinNewZealandandtheSouthPacific.

·Socialevents,greatcruisingcommunityconnections, activitiesandrallies.

Mentoring,trainingseminarsandwebinars.

Accesstoourextensivedatabaseoflocalknowledgeand adviceaboutsailingintheSouthPacificandNew Zealand.

Assistancewithnavigatingtheeverchangingcustoms, immigrationandhealthrequirementsforcruisers.

Advocacyandsupportwhenthingsdon'tgotoplan.

CombinedknowledgeandconnectionswiththeIsland Cruisingcommunity.

Crewmatchingserviceforskipperslookingforcrewor crewlookingforaboat.

Clive Bennett

clive.bennett@seaboatsbrokers.com

+64 27 494 9799

TKAMALII is a magnificent yacht and represents the ultimate conclusion of traditional timber boat construction The current owners have sailed around the world on many yachts, and the yacht is without doubt the most comfortable, sea kindly, sturdy ocean-going vessel they have ever sailed With only a handful of owners in her life she has been the love and passion of all who have owned her Featuring a deep, full keel hull form for enhanced windward performance for this deceptively fast and exceptionally comfortable cruiser. The present owners purchased the vessel in California and after major hull restoration, in 2013 cruised the Pacific to her new life in New Zealand where upgrading has continued in between use as a family cruiser with the finest of pedigrees. A detailed history is available on request. More information here.

92ft Dubois Aluminium Ketch

ACOA is a beautiful ketch rigged Aluminium cruising yacht, designed by the renowned superyacht designer Ed Dubois. Built by Double & Jesse in Germany for long range passage or coastal voyages. She has been around the world and also explored the Antarctic.

Continuous upgrades and professional maintenance including a refit in Orams Marine New Zealand. Most recently she received a new paint job (superstructure, hull, mast, boom), all electronic systems upgraded and domestic equipment changed. Built in safety features include 3 watertight bulkheads plus access via stern and side boarding platforms.

CITYOFSAILSMARINEYACHTBROKERS–NewandUsedBoatsForSale–Motor Yachts–PowerandSail–Classic–Multihulls–Launches–TrailerBoats–Marine Products

WearebasedinAucklandandofferofferaverywideselectionofrecreationaland commercialboatsofalltypes,bothnewandused.

Wearefullserviceyachtandboatbrokers–withtheemphasisonservice.Wealsooffer anumberofmarineservicesandproducts,includingloanfinance,andmarketand insurancevaluations.

WE’RESELLINGBOATS–ANDWENEEDNEWLISTINGS!

Wegetresults,sotalktousnowaboutlistingyourboatforsale–wepromoteyourboat throughanumberofwebsitesandotheroutlets,includingoverseasasappropriate. Phoneusanytime:

BlairHarkness,Mobile0212458809http://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

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

Island Cruising NZ members get a $300 discount on a new water maker from Open Ocean!

Check out their website

Island Cruising NZ

Providing cruisers with support, education & connection

SocialConnection

RunningyachtralliesaroundNewZealandandtheSouthPacific Organisingsocialevents,activitiesandsocialmedianetworks

Learningaboutandbeingrespectfulofthecultureswevisit

· Promotingpositivesocialimpact,communityengagementand long-lastingconnectionswiththepeoplewemeet

Environmemt

Runningasustainableandenvironmentally sensitiveorganisation

Supportinglocalandglobalenvironmental initiativestoprotecttheOceanandtheplaceswevisit Encouragingsailorstobeeco-consciousand reducetheirimpactontheenvironment PromotingCitizenScienceprojectsaimedat oceanhealth

Support

· Beinganinclusive,diverseandsupportivecommunity

· Advocatingforandassistingsailorsinneed

· Adviceonimmigrationclearances&formalities

Yachttrackingandshorecrewsupport

Education

· Assistingsailorstopreparethemselves,theirvessel andcrewforlongcoastaloroffshorevoyages

PromotingSaferBoatinginitiatives Beingarichpoolofknowledge,supportand resourcesforcruisers

Encouragingupskillingandgoodseamanship

Collaboration

· SupportingthestrategicdirectionofYachtingNewZealand

· Formingstrongrelationshipswithyachtclubstopromotelongcoastalandoffshoreraces,ralliesandcruisingeventsandactivities

· PromotingSaferBoatingandgoodseamanshipalongside CoastguardandMaritimeNewZealand

PartneringwithDownUnderRallytopromotecruisinginthe

SouthPacific

Communication

Producingaregularnewslettertokeepcruisers informedonthelatestcruisenews,upcomingevents andpromotingpartnerproducts&businesses. PromotingtheNewZealandMarineindustryand providingapositiveandmutuallybeneficial connectiontotheirtargetmarket

Encouragingandwelcominginternationalsailors toNewZealand