The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are purely those of the authors and are not necessarily the official view of the RNZYS, nor of the publishers.
PERMISSION
Reproduction rights in part or in full of the contents of this publication must be applied for from the Editor.
DEADLINES FOR SPRING 2024 Issue
Now 4 seasonal issues per year
Editorial: 13 September
Advertising booking: 13 September
Advertising material due: 20 September
Magazine posted: 27 September
Layout and Typesetting by
Camille Hay, Live Sail Die
Printed by Soar Communications Group
Registered as a magazine at the GPO, Wellington. ISSN 0113-7360
MANAGEMENT TEAM
General Manager & Sponsorship
Enquires
Sarah Wiblin 027 7051502
Membership & On-Water Enquiries
Georgia Witt 029 02020 457
Events & Venue Hire
Kate Rathbun 027 373 3919
Communications & Major Projects
Ella Sagnol 027 288 3157 On & Off-Water Operations
Cooper Hopman 021 180703
FLAG OFFICERS
Commodore
Andrew Aitken 027 579 4194
Vice Commodore
Gillian Williams 021 540 896
Rear Commodore
David Blakey 029 200 3626
RNZYS Office reception@rnzys.org.nz
09 360 6800
Members’ Bar Reservations
09 360 6814
FROM THE COMMODORE
Thanks to you all for your support and for being part of our club.
This is my last column in Breeze Magazine as Commodore. After the next AGM on the 29th of August, I will be returning my Flag Officers’ cannon, the White Ensign, my Burgee and my Commodore’s badge, and will step back to being a member.
I want to thank you all for the support you have shown the club over these last two years – it has not been the easiest time to be Commodore, although the last year has seen some improvements as we rebuild.
Member participation is key to RNZYS returning to long-term sustainability, while the support from Emirates Team New
Zealad over the last year has certainly helped our balance sheet and our Youth Sailing Programmes. Other positives have been the bedding sown of new core systems, a significant process review, and having some great people working on the team. While we do still have some way to go to achieve the objective of delivering a breakeven result after depreciation from normal trading, we are heading in the right direction!
It has been a privilege being your Commodore. I’ve certainly enjoyed working with the various Flags, General Committees and members over the last 10 years as our club has been through the highs and lows that have got us to where we are today. I particularly need to thank and acknowledge General Manager Sarah Wiblin and the team alongside all of our volunteers, be they Flag Officers, Committee Members and most particularly, our Race Management volunteers - we are a yacht club after all!
I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed getting to know so many of our members. While I have been a member of RNZYS since I was 10 years old, the reason I signed-up to join the General Committee 10 years ago was to give back to the club and our sport while broadening the group of people I knew. Our club has certainly delivered on that score. After a bit of a break for some planned travel you will continue to see me on the water as well as in and around the club.
Times are changing, our club is changing, we need to embrace that change. Our sailing programme is strong but could be stronger. In the current economic climate, we see that the costs for an individual to
run a competitive yacht is shrinking our race-fleet. The pressures of careers, family life and living in Auckland are also having an impact like never before. Continuing to run our sailing programmes while building our club community is our future – financial viability is key to achieving this. We, unlike many successful overseas yacht clubs, don’t have the advantage of an income stream from owning a marina or hard-stand to support us. We rely on hospitality events, trust funding, donations, subscriptions and race entry fees to pay the base costs of running our club. Our Westhaven clubhouse is large, old and expensive to run, if we don’t make sure it is well used, we will continue to struggle. The current seawall redevelopment is not helping – the good news is that it is probably at its worst right now and disruptions will be over by Christmas!
There is much to do going forward. The success of any club is the sum of the input and participation by members. As Commodore until the next AGM on 29 August, I will be doing my best to leave our club in the best possible place given the circumstances, and I do plan to continue to be involved in the future. Please support your club.
See you on the water and around Westhaven.
LIGHTHOUSE CAFE
Talk soon. Andrew Aitken Commodore
Andrew Aitken
FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
Sarah Wiblin
As winter has firmly set in here in Auckland, it is nice to still be out on the water, and Ryan and I are embracing launch life with Sam and the joys of a fabulous heater on board.
As I sit here at anchor and look across the bay it is nice to see many other members enjoying the water on a crisp winters day with their ensign proudly flying. Reflecting on the many things to be proud of across our club - it is fabulous to have Greta Pilkington representing the RNZYS and New Zealand at the Olympics in just a few weeks, our many youth teams performing so incredibly at events across the globe, and to see our Americas Cup teams continue to build towards the 37th America’s Cup in just a few months time. Its also exciting to see our race management
officials being recognised in their fields on the world stage with Megan Kensington taking on an Olympic role and Ryan Parkin umpiring at the Youth and Women’s America’s Cup.
Another major milestone for this year, is the work by our sustainability committee - who have already planted all 1,000 trees on Kawau Island this year — and can now move to focus on the invasive species management across our remaining volunteer days.
In April we had the privilege of taking the America’s Cup to Queen Charlotte Yacht Club in Picton for the Toyota Optimist Nationals. Seeing the reaction from the young sailors and their enthusiasm was truly special. This led into the launch of the Kiwi Cup raffle in May. The raffle has been a major initiative across our club to support the wider sailing community in New Zealand and we thank our partners for their support. We are excited to now be launching the next phases of this program - the Toyota Kiwi Cup Regatta and Toyota Kiwi Cup Tour. Both events will be something our club and membership can be proud of and get involved in.
As we look to the America’s Cup - we have a jam packed schedule of events - with a members lunch at the start of September, a nationwide cup tour, our Kiwi Cup Regatta, America’s Cup OE Party (that’s one not to be missed), gala breakfast to start the cup match, live screenings of the
preliminary regatta, Youth and Women’s America’s Cup, and the Cup Match, plus our daily Barcelona Cub in the members bar - there is something for everyone here in Auckland. If you’re one of over 400 members heading to Barcelona, make sure you check out our website for all the offerings in Spain.
Our normal club program is also in full swing and our Jolly July offering has something for the whole family. The Barfoot & Thompson Women’s Day out is just around the corner, and will be closely followed by Opening Day, our community initiative, the Big Day of Sailing, and the start of another fabulous season. It is great to see so many volunteers getting involved in our club in many ways and across so many events – if you would also like to get involved – please get in touch!
I look forward to seeing you in and around the club soon, or further afield in Barcelona in October! If you’re sailing Croatia in August, and spot us sailing, come and say hi - will be enjoying a week afloat from Split on a family adventure!
Sarah Wiblin General Manager
Greta Pilkington
From Stewart 34 cruising to the Olympic Games
This is the story of how Greta turned her love for the sport into a pursuit of excellence on the international sailing stage and is now an inspiration to all young women who vie for a spot on the New Zealand Olympic Team.
Greta Pilkington has been immersed in the world of sailing since infancy. Her journey from a young girl on her family’s boat to an aspiring Olympic sailor is a testament to her passion, dedication, and competitive spirit. This is the story of how Greta turned her love for the sport into a pursuit of excellence on the international sailing stage and is now an inspiration to all young women who vie for a spot on the New Zealand Olympic Team.
Sailing runs deep in the Pilkington family, with her father Guy being an avid racer, and the former RNZYS Youth Training Program head coach for over 10 years. Her mum, Jane, was also a competitive sailor during her youth up to her 30’s, and two of her three young siblings have also chosen sailing as their main sport.
I sat down with Greta who told us how she went from being a 6-week-old crew member on a Stewart 34, to selection as the women’s ILCA 6 representative for the Paris Olympic Games.
When did you start sailing?
I’ve been on and around boats since I was six weeks old on Mum and Dad’s Stewart 34 “Playbuoy”. My love for sailing began early, and I started learning the ropes at Murrays Bay Sailing Club when I was just seven years old.
Who got you into sailing?
Sailing runs in my blood. Both my parents are avid sailors, and my cousin and I spent our childhood racing our Townsen sailing dinghies, Sunshine and Racer, whenever we went cruising. Watching him join the Murrays Bay Sailing Club sparked my interest to follow suit and continue racing alongside him.
What was the first class you sailed and raced?
The first boat I sailed was my mum’s Townsen sailing dinghy, Racer, a special boat that my grandfather built for her. My first experience in competitive sailing was with an Optimist 4224 called Princess, named after Chris Dickson’s yacht of the same name.
When did you realise you wanted to start racing?
I’ve always been fiercely competitive and loved racing against my friends. It was during these early races that I realised my passion for competitive sailing. Being on a start line with loads of other competitors was what I enjoyed and I couldn’t get enough of it. The intense battle on a race course in challenging conditions fires me up - I love it.
What classes have you sailed over the years?
I’ve sailed a variety of classes, including the Optimist, P Class, Starling, 29er, 49erFX, Stewart 34, and Elliott 7s, and of course, the ILCA 6 which is the class I’ll be racing in at the Games!
What is your best result to date?
My best result so far has been finishing 16th overall at the Semaine Olympique Française in Hyères in April this year. That was a massive achievement as it was my last chance to qualify for the ILCA 6 spot. It was an intense regatta but the goal was top 16 Nation, overall I finished 14th and considered it a massive personal achievement.
Before that it was at the 2023 Sail Sydney regatta where I finished 6th overall, qualifying New Zealand for a spot for the ILCA 6 lineup for the Olympics. Being able to qualify the country and myself is my proudest result.
LEFT Greta receiving her fern signifying her spot on the New Zealand Olympic Team. Photo by Suellen Hurling, Live Sail Die. BELOW Greta and father Guy Pilkington sailing taken by Jane Pilkington.
Why did you choose the ILCA class?
I was drawn to the ILCA class because of the mental challenge it presents. I love the intensity of the big fleets, the close racing, and having to think for myself and make those decisions on the race course alone. There’s also the element of physical strength, and over the last couple of years, I’ve really enjoyed that aspect of sailing an ILCA. I’ve become stronger and fitter than I ever thought possible, and that’s been a huge help not only on the water but off the water as well. Being physically strong assists with mental strength.
Racing single-handed is a mind game, and the intensity of the ILCA 6 just makes it more challenging - but I thrive on that, which is why I love the class. I’d recommend that all sailors get out in the ILCA - it’s awesome!
When did you know you wanted to go to the Olympics?
Since I was a young girl, I’ve dreamed of going to the Olympics. However, it wasn’t until I finished my degree in November 2023 that this dream started to become a tangible reality. Wanting to go to the Olympics and then actually being selected is just an amazing feeling. It’s actually hard to describe!
Who is your sailing inspiration?
Liv Mackay, Molly Meech, and Sara Winther have always been my sailing inspirations. Their achievements and dedication to the sport are incredibly motivating.
I feel that Sara and I have a special connection now. She represented New Zealand in the 2012 London Olympic Games, and we haven’t had a representative in the class since then. I feel that she has handed the batten over to me and now it’s my responsibility to make sure the class keeps thriving here in New Zealand. Liv has achieved so much in her sailing career and watching her through the SailGP and now with the women’s America’s Cup is just awesome.
And Molly - she has done two Olympics and is always so calm and level-headed. I’m excited to be on the same team as her, being surrounded by so much knowledge and experience in the team is invaluable. All three of these sailors are what inspire me to keep going.
How did family trips influence your sailing career?
Our family trips on our Stewart 34, Playbouy, really played a significant role in my life.
We spent every Easter and Christmas holiday on or around the water, engaging in activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, waterskiing, wakeboarding, foiling, sailing, and swimming, which instilled in me a deep love for the sea and practical life skills that have been invaluable in my sailing career. I’ll always be forever grateful for my parents giving me and my brothers and sister those opportunities.
THE BENEFIT OF LOCAL KNOWLEDGE.
Who has significantly helped you along the way?
Many people have supported my journey. Yachting New Zealand coaches and support staff, the APS team from HPSNZ, and my family, especially my Mum (Jane) and Dad (Guy), have been instrumental - and I have to mention my brothers and sister. They help keep things real. A special mention goes to Dan Slater, whose guidance on and off the water has been crucial, and to Suellen Hurling who has always been on hand when I needed some realistic moral support. I have to mention my close friends, who aren’t into sailing at all! They kind of understand what I’m doing, but having their support regardless of their lack of sailing knowledge has been a huge help - they give me the ability to switch off when I need to.
What does it mean to represent New Zealand?
Representing New Zealand is an absolute honour. Being part of such an amazing team and wearing the fern symbol is a reminder of the rich history and depth of talent in New Zealand sailing. Achieving dreams I once thought impossible at such a young age is humbling, and I see this as an opportunity to learn and grow, not just as a sailor but as a person.
What does it mean to represent women in sailing?
Representing women in sailing is about inspiring younger generations and creating pathways for young females to aspire to. It’s about showing that with dedication and hard work, they too can achieve their dreams in this sport. My journey in sailing has been a blend of family influence, personal passion, and relentless dedication. Every race, every challenge, and every triumph is a step closer to achieving my ultimate dream of competing in the Olympics and inspiring the next generation of sailors.
Greta headed off for Europe on the 2nd of June to compete in an array of lead-up regattas before the main event which kicks off on the 28th of July.
Being away for so long can add up financially, so put your support behind Greta by grabbing a ticket or five through the Kiwi Cup website where $10 from each ticket sale will go directly to her campaign when you select to support “Greta Pilkington Sailing”. » www.kiwicup.co.nz
Story by Suellen Hurling
BELOW Greta being interviewed by media after her announcement to representing NZ in the ILCA 6 at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Photo by Suellen Hurling, Live Sail Die.
LEFT Damon Joliffe, Aaron Hume-Merry, and Anna Merchant, crew on Steve Mair’s “Clockwork” were happy to be out in the elements and racing to the Three Kings. Photo by Suellen Hurling, Live Sail Die.
Anyone who finishes this race reaches lengend status
Helly Hansen
Three Kings Race Wrap
Story by Suellen Hurling
The Helly Hansen Three Kings Race is a biannual event and is not for the faint-hearted. It takes grit and grunt to get around the 500nm course, which is why only seasoned offshore sailors take on the challenge.
Even then, not everyone can make it the whole way round the Three Kings Islands, especially when you start the race in torrential rain, 25+ knots and a hideous sea-state.
This year’s edition of the race was delayed by 12 hours due to a severe weather warning. The new start date and time was set for Friday 12th April at 0900 hours off the waters in front of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron. A fleet of 15 yachts, ranging from Ross 930s all the way up to a Botin Carkeek 55 and a mix of designs in-between started on time and were on their way.
Every sailor knew they were in for a challenge, and even though everyone was covered head to toe in wet-weather gear, jackets, trousers and reefs in mains weren’t enough to suppress the challenging sea state.
After the intense, wet start, the blue skies emerged and the sun came out, giving everyone a chance to dry off and settle into the choppy upwind conditions.
The race was an emotional rollercoaster, and it wasn’t too long before retirements were announced. A mix of torn sails, mast track damage, broken forestays and other gear failures sent some of the fleet back to their berths in Westhaven Marina, but the race continued.
2022 PHRF and Line Honours winner Wired was the first boat to stretch their legs and led the fleet up the coast. Their sistership, V5, was one of the unfortunate early withdrawals, but Wired still had to keep one eye on the racing/cruising bus Equilibrium, who kept Wired in their sights.
As the fleet pushed up the coast, those who could handle the conditions pressed on, while a few others used their good seamanship to realise that heading north of Cape Regina wasn’t a wise move for them with reports of a 4-5m swell. The fleets WhatsApp group, that
kept the sailors and boats in check with each other, was full of praise for those who opted to head home and not continue in the race. Support for the yachts that trucked on was also broadcast through the channel, providing positive enthusiasm.
Nigel Bish, crew member on the Ross 930 Hotdogger who withdrew from the race after originally suspending to repair a damaged mainsail, posted to the group that “anyone who finishes this race has automatic legend status,” just some of the support that the sailors gave each other.
Wired was the first boat to round the Three Kings Islands and eventually would take line honours for the second time running. They were met back in Auckland by a roar of cheers as they crossed the finish line. Equilibrium was the second boat to finish and was later confirmed as the overall winner on PHRF.
From the five two-handed division yachts that started, only two finished the challenging endurance race. Favourite... and Akonga managed to hold on for the duration, with Akonga (Nick Roberts and Max ...) taking out the division on PHRF.
“After a conservative start and horrendous conditions beyond Rangi Light we loved the close racing with Favourite and Rangar. More boisterous conditions at North Cape and huge rolling seas out to the Three Kings lead to a close duel with our mates on Favourite… and fueled by Max’s Anzac Biscuits, we managed to get away from them at Cape Brett and had a lovely day sailing through the Hauraki Gulf to take the two-handed division win. The team that met us at the dock provided rum that has never tasted sweeter. A massive thank you to the whole team at RNZYS for organising this incredible race,” said Roberts once the boat was dried our and cleaned up.
This race wasn’t for the faint hearted, with a number of sailors describing the experience in a few simple words:
Quintin Fowler, owner/skipper of Rum Bucket laughed when he
SO HOW WAS IT?
“Chop, chop chop”
“Sh&%house”
“Oh look a sun fish. Man, they are ugly”
“An adventure!”
“Challenging”
“Great learning experience”
“Fullfizzonathon”
“Hectic”
“Grueling”
ABOVE NZL55555 - V5 after rounding North Head
announced that the boat had changed its name to “Chunder Bucket”, defying the conditions as horrible, even for the well-seasoned sailors on board.
While the Helly Hansen Three Kings Race was an intense experience for competitors, it also showed the true grit that’s required to complete a race of this type, providing valuable insights in what teams need to work on and what systems they have nailed down ahead of the upcoming Auckland Noumea Yacht Race which starts on the 25th May, 2024.
The 500nm race is run bi-annually by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, who are expanding their race offering to members and visitors. RNZYS will be the finishing destination club for the 2025 Sydney Auckland Race hosted by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.
Helly Hansen was the naming sponsor for the event, providing muchneeded beanies for all the competing sailors, as well as a number of other accessories from their expansive collection. Helly Hansen has a new retail store in Christchurch and is in the process of expanding their locations into the Auckland region.
The prize giving for the 2024 race was held on Friday 3rd May at RNZYS where Wired was presented with the line honours win, Equilibrium the overall trophy on PHRF, and Akonga the two-handed PHRF trophy.
The real buzz of the night was who got to take home the $12,000 Omega Seamaster Timepiece which was presented to Wired, the first RNZYS registered yacht on PHRF (they finished second in that division).
For more information regarding RNZYS, visit the website www.rnzys. org.nz or follow the club on social media.
Photo by Suellen Hurling, Live Sail Die.
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Option to purchase option Tapas and/or Park Guell tours.
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Join the Women’s Day Out
August 24th
Story by Hayley Gillespie
A celebration of women on water and a chance to network with your fellow RNZYS women, the Women’s Day Out 2024 is scheduled for August 24th. Based on the overwhelmingly positive feedback from the first event, this year’s day will follow a similar format thanks to Mastercard and Barfoot & Thompson.
Early bird registration is now available online.
To capture a snapshot of the 2023 Women’s Day Out event and entice you into joining us for a brilliant day this year, we spoke to Vice Commodore Gillian Williams, an instigator of the event and an advocate for women’s sailing at the club. “The first ever Women’s Day Out was a great day to have fun with sailing, reconnect with old friends and make new friends” says Williams. “Since last year’s event, we have introduced our new member categories, making it easier and more cost-effective for women to be a full member, rather than an associate to their partner. This gives them voting rights and the right to skipper yachts in RNZYS races. We want women to be an integral part of our club participating at all levels” she continues.
“Last summer we also revamped our women’s racing series, getting the fleet out for harbour racing with a woman on the helm and at least 50% women on board. We plan to grow on that for the next summer by introducing a non-spinnaker division.”
Regular sailor and Women’s Day Out attendee, Cats Leiva, highlighted the amazing connections she made and her experience on the water. “It’s clear the club cares about including woman more every day in the sailing community, I’ve seen that our participation has definitely increased in the last few years, it was so exciting to see the number of women that turned up for the day out. The event was such a fun way to spend our Saturday, I brought friends that haven’t sailed before and I was so excited to share this experience with them, seeing everyone work as a team was beautiful and they are now part of the crew of the boat I sail on. It felt that it was planned so well, from the logistics to the catering, everything made me feel welcomed and cared for” she said.
“The positive mindset, the smiles and the diversity of the ladies who showed up for the event made it really special… It made me appreciate the helpful and team-oriented mindset we have when a bunch of us come together. But, the best part of my day was being out on the water with friends, seeing their faces light up with joy. Sharing the beauty of the Hauraki Gulf with over 200 incredible women was an unforgettable experience. The delicious catering and the fun headshots captured at the end added the perfect touch to a fantastic day!” Long time sailor and member of the club Janelle Blackmoore echoed Cats sentiment. “I was surrounded by a strong community of women sailors, and it was an opportunity to connect with some friends that I hadn’t seen in a while.”
“The Women’s Day Out is a great opportunity for women to ‘give it a go’, no matter how much or how little experience you have sailing. It’s all about getting out on the water and having fun!” Janelle also encourages those who didn’t attend last year to sign up for this years event in August. “There are countless reasons to join us this year, but it all boils down to connection. Engage with other inspiring women,
hear their stories, and bond over shared experiences. Embrace the elements, feel the wind in your hair, and discover the thrill of sailing. Above all, come to reaffirm that we are capable of anything! Remember that feeling of gazing at the harbour and thinking “I wish I could do that”? Well, you can — and we’ll be there to cheer you on every step of the way!”
Vice Commodore Gillan Williams says the Women’s Day Out is for everyone. “If you sailed 30 years ago and want to get back into it, now is the time. If you’ve never sailed before, now is the time. If you’ve done a learn to sail, but not known what to do next, this is it. And for our regular women sailors, it is a great fun day out.”
Head to our website to find out more about this year’s event on August 24th.
RNZYS Annual Prizegiving
Congratulations to all the prize winners of the RNZYS 2023-24 Sailing Season.
A heartfelt thanks to our volunteers, for being so generous with their time and skills, allowing us to hold fantastic sailing events for our members to enjoy. Thank you also to this year’s sponsors! We were pleased deliver a major grand prize draw for our Club Champions of this season. Thanks to OMEGA Watches, a brand new Seamaster timepiece was awarded to Mr Kite II by lucky draw!
PIC Insurance Brokers Wednesday Series
DIVISION R – PHS
MR KITE II – N. WILLIAMS
DIVISION A – PHS
THE BIG DON’T ARGUE – G. HARDEN
DIVISION B – PHS
JIVE TALKIN – H. SHERRATT
DIVISION C (LIGHT) – PHS
JUNIPER – L. MISSIAEN
DIVISION F (C HEAVY) – PHS
AMBIANCE – K. BROWNE / H. ELLEHUUS
DIVISION E (Non-Spinnaker) – PHS
BIRD ON THE WING – M. MALCOLM
FARR MRX – LINE
1999 TOUGH OF GLOSS – P. DOUGLAS
SPORTSBOATS – PHS
CLIFF HANGER – C. GORDON
YOUNG 88 – PHS
HEARTLIGHT – R. SIMS
PIC Insurance Brokers Sprint Series
MRX SPRINTS
1992 BENEFITZ – S. BALL/ H. DODSON
MRX SPRINTS – first female helm
1996 KPMG – P. POWRIE
ELLIOTT 7 SPRINT SERIES
J. SALTHOUSE
PIC Insurance Brokers Crusing Series
PHS – 1ST OVERALL
MUSTANG SALLY – B. STILL
Bafoot & Thompson Women’s Series
PHS – 1ST OVERALL
MR KITE II – G. WILLIAMS
Doyles Sails Winter Series 2023
DIVISION R – PHS
MR KITE II – N. WILLIAMS
DIVISION A – PHS
GEORGIA ONE – J. MUIR
DIVISION B – PHS
BIZZARRE – B. MARTIN
DIVISION C (LIGHT) – PHS FAST COMPANY – T. SMITH
DIVISION F (C HEAVY) – PHS VELLAMO – H. FULTON
DIVISION E (Non-Spinnaker) – PHS JENANNE II – G. GIBBONS
FARR MRX – LINE
1999 TOUCH OF GLOSS – P. DOUGLAS
SPORTSBOATS – PHS
MAGIC DRAGON – B. GRIBBLE
CLASSICS – PHS
ARIKI – A. BARNES
YOUNG 88 – PHS
FLASH GORDON – K. DRUMMOND
Havanna Club Rum Race Series
RUM RACE – B DIVISION WINTER 2023 & AUTUMN 2023
WINTER – LINE & PHS
CHARMONET – R. CHAPMAN
AUTUMN – LINE
GEORGIA ONE – J. MUIR
AUTUMN – PHS
VELLAMO – H. FULTON
RUM RACE – E DIVISION WINTER 2023 & AUTUMN 2023
AUTUMN – LINE
WINTER- PHS &LINE EXTREME – M. ROBERTS
AUTUMN – PHS
PSYCHE – P. GROOM
RUM RACE – B DIVISION SUMMER 2024 & SPRING 2023
SUMMER – PHS & LINE
SPRING – LINE SYSTEMS THUNDER – B. WARD
SPRING – PHS
VELLAMO – H. FULTON
RUM RACE – E DIVISION SUMMER 2024 & SPRING 2023
SUMMER – PHS & LINE
SPRING – LINE EXTREME – M. ROBERTS
SPRING – PHS
MRX 2001 OVLOV MARINE – O. SMIRNOV
Mastercard Youth Training Programme
SEASON LINE HONOURS
Rory Sims, Alissa Marshall, Hayden Smith, Ella Arnold
YOUTH MATCH RACING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Hayden Smith, Ella Arnold, Kelly Su, Luca Smith
SUMMER POINTS SERIES (FLEET RACING RESULTS)
Sam Scott, Austin Candlish, Hugo McMullen, Alissa Marshall
Waitemata Racing (Josh Hyde, Jack Manning, Zach Fong, Cody Coughlan)
SEAMANSHIP YOUTH AWARD
Ella Arnold
SIR PETER BLAKE LEADERSHIP AWARD
Marin Armstrong-Wills
Race Management Awards
RACE OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR AWARD
Colin Lucas
BOAT DRIVER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Delwyn Erceg
JUDGE/UMPIRE OF THE YEAR AWARD
Ryan Parkin
Sustainable Action Awards
SUSTAINABLE ACTION AWARD
Jon Bilger
36 Degree Brokers Commodores Cup
Division A
PHS 1ST ROUND RANGITOTO RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
V5 – B. PETERSEN
PHS 1ST NIGHT RACE TO KAWAU COMMODORES CUP SERIES
MR KITE II – N. WILLIAMS
PHS 1ST KAWAU HARBOUR RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
MR KITE II – N. WILLIAMS
PHS 1ST TARAHIKI RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
CARRERA – J. MEADOWCROFT
PHS 1ST HAYSTACK PASSAGE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
CARRERA – J. MEADOWCROFT
PHS 1ST OVERALL COMMODORES CUP SERIES
MR KITE II – N. WILLIAMS
Division B
PHS 1ST ROUND RANGITOTO RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
JIVE TALKIN – SHERRATT/KELLY/ARTHUR
PHS 1ST NIGHT RACE TO KAWAU COMMODORES CUP SERIES
NIRVANA – N. HENDY
PHS 1ST KAWAU HARBOUR RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
BIZZARRE – B. MARTIN
PHS 1ST TARAHIKI RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
BIZZARRE – B. MARTIN
PHS 1ST HAYSTACK PASSAGE RACE
COMMODORES CUP SERIES
BIZZARRE – B. MARTIN
PHS 1ST OVERALL COMMODORES CUP SERIES
BIZZARRE – B. MARTIN
Division C
PHS 1ST ROUND RANGITOTO RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
HYSTERIA – G. CUMMINGS
PHS 1ST NIGHT RACE TO KAWAU COMMODORES CUP SERIES
ELLIPHUNK – B. TRUBOVICH
PHS 1ST KAWAU HARBOUR RACE
COMMODORES CUP SERIES
WAKA HUIA – N. GILLIES
PHS 1ST TARAHIKI RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
WAR MACHINE – MCWILLIAMS/ MACINDOE/ LEYLAND
PHS 1ST HAYSTACK PASSAGE RACE
COMMODORES CUP SERIES
START ME UP – H. WREN
PHS 1ST OVERALL COMMODORES CUP SERIES
JUNIPER – L. MISSIAEN
Division E
PHS 1ST ROUND RANGITOTO RACE
COMMODORES CUP SERIES
HOUSE OF ELLIOTT – L. MCDONALD
PHS 1ST NIGHT RACE TO KAWAU COMMODORES CUP SERIES
BIRD ON THE WING – M. MALCOLM
PHS 1ST KAWAU HARBOUR RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
AURIGA – G. SCARBOROUGH
PHS 1ST TARAHIKI RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
BIRD ON THE WING – M. MALCOLM
PHS 1ST HAYSTACK PASSAGE RACE COMMODORES CUP SERIES
BIRD ON THE WING – M. MALCOLM
PHS 1ST OVERALL COMMODORES CUP SERIES
BIRD ON THE WING – M. MALCOLM
Lease of Martello Rock
MR KITE II – N WILLIAMS
CBRE Club Championships
DIVISION R – PHS
MR KITE II – N. WILLIAMS
DIVISION A – PHS KAIZEN – S. MANNING / A. ROBERTSON
DIVISION B – PHS BIZZARRE – B. MARTIN
DIVISION C LIGHT – PHS JUNIPER – L. MISSIAEN
DIVISION F (C HEAVY) – PHS AMBIANCE – H. ELLEHUUS / K. BROWNE
DIVISION E (Non-Spinnaker) – PHS BIRD ON THE WING – M. MALCOLM
MRX – LINE
1999 TOUCH OF GLOSS – P. DOUGLAS
YOUNG 88 – PHS + LINE
WAR MACHINE – P. MCWILLIAMS/ C. MACINDOE/ M. LEYLAND
A full gallery of images available for download can be found by scanning the QR Code below.
ENSURE THE ONGOING SUPPORT & SUCCESS OF OUR SAILING PROGRAMMES & SPECIFIC PROJECTS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS TO ENJOY
RNZYS PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME
The Performance Programme is gearing up for the prestigious Governor’s Cup in California, widely recognized as the most significant trophy in Youth Match Racing. This year the reagatta has one of the strongest line-ups in many years, with great representation from teams America and
Josh Hyde’s Waitemata Racing team, comprising Zach Fong and Cody Coughlan, will be heading to the competition. They are joined by young talent Tom Pilkington, with former YTP coach Guy Pilkington accompanying them as coach. This is an excellent opportunity for the team, providing a chance to compete against top-tier northern hemisphere teams following their impressive Australasian summer, where they clinched victories at both the Hardy Youth International in Sydney and the New Zealand Youth International earlier this year.
Performance Programme member Jack Frewin is also going to compete at the ‘Govs Cup’ too, this time teaming up with World #1 Youth Match Racer Cole Tapper from Australia. Jack is coming of the back of a New Zealand Keelboat Nationals win. Jack and his team clinched the title winning a nailbiting regatta against 11 different teams. It was great to have two RNZYS teams 1 and 2
at this event with Waitemata Racing coming in 2nd.
Robbie McCutcheon, a former Performance Programme graduate now residing in Palma, will also represent the club at the OM International Match Racing regatta in Italy, followed by the Governor’s Cup.
Once again, our thanks to Musto who are supplying our sailors with high-quality gear, ensuring they look great and perform their best while representing us.
Following this pinnacle regatta, our Youth teams will focus on the Youth Match Racing Worlds Trials on September 14th and 15th, to be held off the front of the club on the Waitemata. They will be vying for one or potentially two spots to compete at the Worlds in December. This event will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With many enthusiastic young teams sailing out of the club, this event promises to be exciting for spectators. We encourage you to come down and watch from either the members’ bar or the lighthouse to support these talented teams!
Jack Frewin sailing the MRX’s. Photo by Suellen Hurling, Live Sail Die.
RNZYS SAILING REPORT
The winter sailing season is in full swing, marked by the bustling activity of our Havana Club Rum Races and the competitive North Sails Winter Series. Amidst this quieter time of the year, there’s plenty to reflect on and eagerly anticipate.
The highlight of our calendar, the 2023-2024 Annual Prizegiving, was a resounding success. Congratulations to all trophy winners and CBRE Club Champs, including Mr Kite II, Kaizen, Bizzarre, Juniper, Bird On The Wing, Ambiance, War Machine, and MRX 1999 Touch of Gloss. Taking home the coveted Omega Watch, the overall winner of the evening was Mr Kite II, helmed by Gillian and Nathan Williams. It was a night of celebration and camaraderie, where sailors traded their sea gear for more formal attire.
As the North Sails Winter Series progresses, competition intensifies with each Windward/Leeward race day. A friendly reminder to all sailors: should you retire from a race, please contact the Sailing Office if you’re unable to reach the race committee on VHF. Also, mark your calendars for June 22nd, the last race day for Oceanbridge – Te Kouma before she undergoes essential maintenance ready for the new season.
Looking ahead, we have an exciting lineup of events for the remainder of winter. Following the success of last year’s event, Barfoot and Thompson Women’s Day Out on August 24th promises
to be a highlight. Boat owners willing to participate are encouraged to contact the Sailing Office, as we aim to make this year’s event even more memorable.
We are absolutely excited about the announcement of the Toyota Kiwi Cup regatta, with 10 teams of youth sailors from across the country coming to the Squadron for three days training and two days racing in our Emirates Team New Zealand Elliott 7’s.
Off the water, mark your calendars for September 21st—a Volunteers Open Day for both current and prospective volunteers. It’s a fantastic opportunity to upskill and explore new roles within the club.
Following shortly after on September 25th, our Sailors Summer Season Briefing will provide insights into the upcoming 2024-2025 series, offering skippers and crew a chance to ask questions and prepare for the season ahead.
Witt, Membership and Offer Manager.
Georgia
North Sails Winter Series Volunteers. Photo by Suellen Hurling, Live Sail Die.
The countdown is on: Get ready now for the PIC Costal Classic
“We cannot stress enough the importance of planning ahead. For those returning from the America’s Cup, you literally have only two days before jumping on your boat…”
– Commodore, NZ Multihull Club – Adrian Percival
While excitement builds for the 37th Americas Cup in Barcelona, so does the anticipation of the 41st PIC Coastal Classic on 25th October. Our message to you: Don’t miss out on the best Kiwi sailing event in the calendar. Get ready early so that you can do both!
Getting ready for the PIC Coastal Classic is key to having a great race. As one of New Zealand’s most famous yachting events, it calls for some good planning and preparation, especially with so much on the calendar for Kiwi boaties and yachties this year.
“While it may seem a long way off, this race will sneak up on you,” says Adrian Percival, Commodore of the NZ Multihull Yacht Club and organiser of the event. “With some crew setting their sights on the America’s Cup, it’s vital to ensure both the boat and crew are organised beforehand. Proper preparation not only maximises performance but also enhances safety, teamwork, and the overall race experience – allowing crews to focus on sailing their best race and making the most of this event.”
RIGHT Coastal_Classic 2022. Photo by Suellen Hurling, Live Sail Die.
To help stay ahead of the game, here is a list of tasks that need to be completed:
Get your Cat 3
This is arguably the most crucial part of the preparation, as without it, you won’t be able to race. With many Cat3 certificates set to expire this year we recommend you schedule your Cat 3 inspection with Yachting New Zealand at least a month before the event. Ensure you have all the necessary checks completed. Below is a summary of what’s involved.
PHRF handicaps are issued by Yachting New Zealand. Processing can take up to three weeks, so we urge you to not leave it to the last minute.
Crew
It’s not just a matter of having your boat up to scratch, your crew should be too. Make sure you leave enough time to conduct some sessions to familiarise your crew with boat operations, sail handling and safety and emergency procedures.
Race Clinics
Our race clinics offer vital insights into boat preparation, safety, tactics, and weather and are tailored for both newcomers and seasoned sailors. We strongly encourage skippers and crew to attend irrespective of their experience level.
“We cannot stress enough the importance of planning ahead,” says Adrian. “For those returning from the America’s Cup, you literally have only two days before jumping on your boat. We urge you to ensure other members of your crew attend the registration and briefing sessions, as these will cover crucial information on weather, tactics, and other essential details. And when we win—what better way to celebrate than by getting out on the water and diving into this exciting race!”
IMPORTANT DATES
ENTRIES CLOSE
LATE ENTRIES CLOSE
PREP/SAFETY/TACTICS CLINIC
SAFETY CLINIC
27 August 17th or 24th September (to be confirmed)
WEATHER AND TACTICS CLINIC
REGISTRATION & BRIEFING
RACE DAY
LEFT Coastal_Classic 2023. Photo by Adam Mustill, Live Sail Die.
Blue Nature
An organisation dedicated to improving blue carbon and water quality in New Zealand.
In mid-2023, Hon. Nikki Kaye and Dr Nigel Bradley established Blue Nature Aotearoa (Blue Nature), an organisation dedicated to improving blue carbon and water quality in New Zealand. Blue Nature intends to rebuild the plant and animal species that are being decimated in our oceans and waterways by climate change and human activity. The initiative aims to support the regeneration of our oceans and waterways through developing environmental technologies. Kaye and Bradley came together to support blue carbon initiatives; they believe the regeneration of species and plants is the key to overcoming climate change.
Our oceans and waterways are in significant distress and decline. It’s a fact that is hard to dispute, but one that Blue Nature is trying to change. Many species of plants, animals, and algae are dying in our oceans and waterways, risking the functioning and development of our ecosystems. However, there’s a massive economic and environmental opportunity if we can deliver to help fix this problem. Through the next generation and environmental technology, Blue Nature is shaping the way towards a better future for us all.
A significant step towards delivering this regeneration was setting up the Blue Nature Aotearoa Trust, giving the organisation the funding and engines to deliver more projects. The Trust has launched two pilot projects this year - the first of which is a blue penguin technology project run by Professor John Cockrem, an expert in his field. Students from Mulberry Grove Primary School on Aotea Great Barrier Island work with Cockrem for this project, helping with camera and audio technology to provide better research and data on blue penguins on Great Barrier Island. Blue Nature is incredibly grateful to the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) for supporting our second pilot project - a
secondary school based program. Twenty Albany Senior High School students, a teacher, and Blue Nature representatives are graciously hosted by the RNZYS every Wednesday to work on ten different projects. These projects involve emerging technologies in water and supporting oceanic plants and species. They cover a diverse, wide range of areas like kina barrens, mangrove growth, kōura regeneration, and social change through video games focused on activism. Two of these projects even focus on the development of autonomous machines and robots in the areas of microplastics and plastic converters.
Blue Nature adapted the project format for this pilot from Albany Senior High School’s impact projects. Impact projects are year-long social impact projects designed to unleash students’ creativity and positively impact on the community. Blue Nature’s pilot projects aim to bring together environmentalists, educators, and technologists to ensure that the students end the year with a real-world, tangible and deliverable Blue Nature project. They work to develop ocean and environmental science literacy in students and grow project management and execution skills. Hopefully, in the future, these students will gain micro-credentials in the new technologies they are working with.
One of these projects is Serendipity, a plastic waste converter student Maria Savancea is developing. Serendipity aims to take plastic waste and convert it into new products, addressing plastic pollution in the ocean by giving plastic value again. Serendipity is heavily inspired by biomimicry, and Savancea plans to develop it further into a business in the future. Serendipity will be placed on boats, allowing fishermen to collect plastic waste and produce items like bait, fishing lines, and other fishing equipment. Savancea thinks
Story by Heather Darnley
Blue Nature Youth Impact Programmes
that Serendipity is viable in the near future and will change the way we treat plastic waste: “Conversion is actually something that happens commercially, it’s just not something that’s been tapped into for actual people, and it’s not actually used as often as it could be. I feel like it could make a really big difference in people’s lives.”
Another two students, Logan Gardiner and Liam Shaw, are developing a new type of burley. They are attempting to use the waste from kina barrens in the Hauraki Gulf to produce fishing bait. Developing bait this way helps to make it sustainable and allows the ecosystem to recover from kina barrens. Gardiner and Shaw plan to build DeepSpine into a business later this year, hoping to revolutionise the burley business. Kina is a significant species to Blue Nature; one of Blue Nature’s founders, Dr Nigel Bradley, is involved in Kinanomics, a company removing kina barrens from the ocean floor, allowing ocean flora and fauna to flourish once again.
Secondary students in the Blue Nature Aotearoa Youth programmes are based in our new home inside the Royal Zealand Yacht Squadron in Wynyard quarter.
Students work alongside community, business, science technology leaders on projects focused on restoring areas ocean, coastal and waterways.
This work involves individual student projects or projects involving multiple students.
Blue Nature formally launched on the 3rd of July 2024, at RNZYS. The education programs are being delivered through a charitable trust. We recognise the vast capability of members in understanding and caring for our oceans and waterways. If you’re interested in being involved, donating or supporting our work, please contact
The programme involves design thinking, the use of new technologies, marine science and the opportunity to work space in central Auckland.
We expect all secondary and primary students will gain and knowledge in new technologies, environmental science impact projects.
In store or online at rnzys.org.nz/shop
Race Management Volunteers 2024 Awards
Race Official of the Year Award
Race Managaement Award: Colin Lucas
Colin Lucas is a veteran among the RNZYS race officers, bringing years of experience to the table. With a title of National Race Officer, he’s had his hands in everything from sprint racing to match racing and offshore races. He’s even got some stories from his time as a mark layer during the Americas Cup.
In the past year, Colin’s been the driving force behind several match racing events, as well as taking charge of the challenging Helly Hansen 3 Kings race and representing New Zealand as the Race Officer for the Auckland to Sydney race. These races aren’t just about what happens on race day—they involve a ton of behind-thescenes work and plenty of late nights in the race tower. Colin’s the guy everyone turns to for these big races, and for good reason.
Boat Driverof the Year Award
Boat Driver of the Year Trophy: Delwyn Erceg
Delwyn wears many hats at the club—besides her role as a race officer, she’s our go-to person for boat driving, often stepping in to save the day when we’re in a pinch. She’s been our knight in shining armor more times than we can count this past season. But her contributions don’t stop there. Del has also taken it upon herself to spruce up Te Kouma, making sure it’s shipshape and comfortable for those marathon days on the water. And let’s not forget her catering skills—everyone perks up when they hear Del’s at the helm, knowing there’ll be some delicious treats onboard.
Judge/ Umpire of the Year
Judge/ Umpire of the Year Trophy: Ryan Parkin
Ryan Parkin is not just a graduate of our YTP; he’s a seasoned International Umpire with a wealth of experience under his belt. When it comes to our Match Racing events, Ryan is the linchpin, orchestrating teams of local and international umpires and judges to ensure smooth sailing on the water.
Beyond his official duties, Ryan is a beacon of support for our sailors and umpires alike. Always ready to tackle rules questions and lend a helping hand, he’s played a crucial role in training and elevating the skills of both new umpires and our YTP sailors.
This year, Ryan’s expertise will extend all the way to the 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona, where he’ll be putting his umpiring prowess to the test on an international stage.
Kawau Reforestation Project
Our Squadron 150th Year Legacy Project on Kawau Island is now in its third year, with over 7,000 trees planted on the site. This year we have planted over 1,000 trees on the island and are moving to focus on invasive species management, as we work to ensure the native trees can take hold and flourish for many years to come.
We are grateful to have had support from many members, sponsors and corporate partners on Kawau Island, two partners in particular continue to regularly visit the island and support this important work – Mastercard and Southern Spas. The fantastic effort that these teams have put in this year has ensured we are well ahead of our planting and maintenances plans for the year.
The goal of this project is to improve the ecological value of the landscape, restore the ngahere mauri (forest lifeforce) and provide habitat for the threatened species such as Kwi and weka that live on Kawau Island.
Many hands make light work! So, if you’d like to be part of this sustainability legacy consider joining an upcoming project weekend. It’s a great opportunity to connect with fellow members, and enjoy a day in the great outdoors at the picturesque Kawau Island. Family and friends are welcome to join.
UPCOMING PROJECT DAYS
• July 13th/14th
• August 10th/11th
Make your way to Kawau Island by your own vessel, catch a water taxi from Sandspit, or connect with Squadron members and cruise up by boat.
Head to the website to register your interest, connect with the group and find out more.
Connecting with Rawene’s bloodline
Stories from the past uncovered in a rare meeting of fate.
Story by Hayley Gillespie
Classic yachts are our reminder of time past, picturesque, elegant and powered by wind for more than a century. The 1908 gaff cutter Logan designed Rawene has been triumphant in the modern day, without the usual advancements given to restored vessels. Her polished timbers, brass and craftsmanship reflect her true form, restored but not brought to the 2000’s with any additional modifications and still firmly holding her own in races across the Waitemata and further afield. Rawene embodies the spirit of now and the stories of the past and we were lucky enough to connect with fate, as Graeme Jennings made contact with the yachts current crew and Tino Rawa Trust to explore and share in his family’s stories (The Giffords) magnificent piece of sailing history. From 1908 to now, there were hours spent discussing the stories of the past, how we connect with the boat now.
Alf Gifford serving as commodore from 1924-1926 and again in 1935 – 1937, followed by Jack Gifford in 1953 – 1955.
This year, grieving the loss of his Father, Graeme set upon a trip to New Zealand to reconnect with memories and arrange his dad’s memoirs of the past. In a twist of fate, his mother’s eagle-eye spotted Rawene on the news at the recent Wooden Boat Show, Graeme was able to connect with the Tino Rawa Trust Rawene’s current crew.
Graeme Jennings grew up in Mt Eden, Auckland, but has spent most of his life outside of New Zealand. In 2001 he moved from Auckland to London to pursue a career in photojournalism. Jennings freelanced in London for eight years before relocating to the United States in 2008. Now based in Washington DC, he predominantly covers politics – Capitol Hill, the White House, and national news.
Graeme’s family has two past commodores of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron in their bloodline. With his Great Grandfather
“I connected with Bob [Stil] and met up with him on Rawene in the viaduct. Then a few days later I went to the RNZYS to meet Chris, who gave me a tour, some of Rawene’s current crew, and Tony Stevenson from the Tino Rawa Trust. They were all keen to hear my story and much as I was to hear theirs, and the relationship to Rawene.”
Upon meeting Graeme, we were privileged to learn of his family’s background and some of the more formative memories held by his late father who spent time with Graeme’s great-grandfather, Alf Gifford, sailing Rawene.
“My great-grandfather Alf Gifford had Rawene built by the Logan Brothers in 1908. In 1980, my great Uncle Jack Gifford sold her to Robert Brooke, and in 2012 the Tino Rawa Trust purchased her. My father Tony, (grandson of Alf Gifford) sailed on Rawene in his youth,
alongside Alf and Jack, in the late 1940s and 50s.”
My father passed away in June 2023. I have since gone through a lot of memorabilia of Rawene that my dad kept hidden away in boxes and draws. I remember as a kid, dad would talk about his days onboard Rawene. Dad would regularly go out Rawene with Alf on the weekends.
He always referred to Alf as “the old man”. I know my dad had a very strong bond with Alf.
My dad’s father, Richard, spent most of his adult life in the Royal Navy and didn’t see him much. So, he looked to Alf as a mentor. Alf would hurriedly tell my dad to eat up his dinner quickly before they set sail in the evening. They would go on weekend trips to Kawau, Waiheke, Great Barrier, and go fishing. In the evenings as everyone was about to turn in, Alf would tell my dad to “douse the glim” (turn the light out) on the old kerosene lamps they used in those days. My dad also used to sail Tara, the last sailing dingy designed and built by Arch Logan that Alf had brought. Tara was kept in the boat shed at my great Uncle Jacks’ house in Herne Bay before Dad gifted her to the Kauri Museum in Matakohe.
I spent several days going through my dad’s belongings while I was visiting Auckland in March – April. There was a lot to unpack, not only in the house by emotionally as well. My dad bought the house in 1974. It was the house I grew up in and memories came flooding back as I poured through 50 years’ worth of stuff. Amongst the detritus of old news clippings and handwritten letters, I found a treasure trove of old sepia-toned photographs and albums. Pictures of my dad on Rawene with “The Old Man” One album stood out that was entitled “Xmas Cruise 1933. A Class Keel Yacht “Rawene”, with Alf at the helm with her crew that includes Great Uncle Jack. I also stumbled upon Rawene’s original Certificate of Registry from 1909.”
Despite having only just set foot on Rawene himself, Graeme has always had a fond affinity with the yacht.
“I was a toddler when Jack passed Rawene on to Richard Brook, so I never got to know her personally. I only knew of her through my dad’s stories, and of the framed Henry Winkleman black and white photographs he had of her hanging on the walls in the house.
As a child, I would stare into them, curious to know who the shadowy figures were on board sailing her. The stories and pictures of Rawene seemed fairytale-like to me.
Perhaps some of that was the charming bokeh effect of the half-plate cameras Winkleman used back then, but there was a majestic allure about her that stayed in my memory as far back as I can remember. I feel like Rawene is an important part of Auckland’s maritime history, and I’m glad I’ve connected with her, despite it being under the circumstances of my dad’s passing.”
“Being onboard Rawene was sublime, and thanks to Bob for setting that up. I would certainly like to do that again when I’m next in town.”
Memories have been gained, not forgotten, but imprinted into the minds of Graeme Jennings and Rawene’s crew for future generations. We know Rawene’s legacy, and the stories of her family will continue capture the minds of many sailors and classic yacht lovers for years to come.
2024 RAFFLE
RAFFLE
Youth & Women’s America’s Cup:
Promoting diversity and promoting opportunities.
The 37th America’s Cup, set to take place in Barcelona in 2024, includes exciting additions to the traditional events: the Women’s and Youth America’s Cup. These events are aimed at promoting diversity and providing opportunities for the next generation of sailors to showcase their talents on an international stage.
Women’s America’s Cup
The Women’s America’s Cup marks a significant milestone in the sailing world. It aims to increase female participation and visibility in competitive sailing, traditionally a male-dominated sport. The event will feature top female sailors from around the world, competing in state-of-the-art foiling monohulls, similar to those used in the main America’s Cup competition.
Youth America’s Cup
The Youth America’s Cup is designed to nurture young talent and provide a pathway for the next generation of America’s Cup sailors. This event focuses on sailors under the age of 25, giving them the opportunity to compete at an elite level.
Key Highlights:
Key Highlights:
• Inclusion and Diversity: The Women’s America’s Cup is a crucial step towards gender equality in sailing, offering women sailors a platform to demonstrate their skills at the highest level.
• Team Composition: Teams are expected to be composed entirely of female sailors, including helmswomen, tacticians, and grinders.
• Boat Specifications: The boats will be AC40s, a smaller version of the AC75s used in the main event. These high-performance boats are designed for speed and agility, providing thrilling races.
• Schedule: The Women’s America’s Cup will take place alongside the main event, with races scheduled throughout the competition period.
• Development and Opportunity: The Youth America’s Cup aims to develop young sailors’ skills and provide a stepping stone to professional sailing careers, including potential future participation in the America’s Cup.
• Team Composition: Teams will consist of young sailors from various countries, offering a diverse field of competitors.
• Boat Specifications: Like the Women’s America’s Cup, the Youth America’s Cup will use AC40s, ensuring that young sailors gain experience with the latest foiling technology.
• Schedule: The Youth America’s Cup races will be interspersed with the main America’s Cup events, allowing spectators to witness the emerging talent.
Overall, the Women’s and Youth America’s Cup events in Barcelona represent a progressive step forward for the sport, emphasising inclusivitsy and the development of young talent. These events will not only add excitement to the 37th America’s Cup but also leave a lasting impact on the sailing community.
And of course, we will be cheering for our competing teams in both events!
Weight of Te Kawau: 1 tonne
Length of Te Kawau: 16 m
Kaihoe (paddlers): rōpū (team) of 20
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei: Te Kawau
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei were proud to launch the new waka taua (ceremonial canoe) on Sunday 23 July, 2024 onto their cultural waters the Waitematā, at Ōkahu Bay, Auckland.
This is the first time in nearly a quarter of a century that Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei will have a ceremonial waka designed to showcase the deep connection to our ancestral moana Te Waitematā and reaffirm Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei as not only tangata whenua but also tangata moana.
RIGHT Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei waka. BELOW Kaihoe carrying Te Kawau.
Photos by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
The name Te Kawau takes inspiration from the Kawau (black cormorant / great cormorant) bird. The Kawau bird is known for its perserverance and has a great ability to dive to the deepest depths. The name Te Kawau also references the Ngāti Whātua paramount chief Apihai Te Kawau who signed Te Tiriti in March 1840 on the Manukau harbour. Āpihai also gifted the original 3000 acres of land to Governor Hobson that for the establishment of the settlement of Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland.
Te Kawau which can seat up to 26 paddlers, was created and carved from a single rākau, a 40,000 swamp kauri felled north of Auckland. Te Kawau was built at Hihiaua in Whangārei under the leadership of Heemi Eruera, who learnt the art of waka building and
carving from the late Sir Hekenukumai (Hector) Busby. It has taken 2 years to build the waka, but the plans for building have been in the pipeline since 2011. Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei are forever grateful to Heemi Eruera and his expert team of builders and carvers.
The launch of Te Kawau saw a range of men, all descendents of the common ancestor Tuperiri, and who were tasked with the privilege of paddling Te Kawaus first journey on the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei ancestral waters, Waitematā Kupenga Rau. The youngest kaihoe being 14 years old and one of the older kaihoe being a former bailer of the previous waka, Māhuhu-o-terangi during the 1990 celebrations. It is nearly 25 years since Māhuhu-o-te-rangi last sailed as part of the millenium celebrations.
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei: Taihoro
On Thursday 18 April, 2024, In a stirring ceremony, Iwi manaaki Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei gifted and blessed the name ‘Taihoro’ on the boat that Emirates Team New Zealand will sail in their defence of the 37th America’s Cup.
The name ‘Taihoro’ is inspired from Taihoro-Nukurangi, which translates to “move swiftly as the sea between both sky and earth. Taihoro-Nukurangi captures the dynamic essence of the sea (Tai), the concept of speed (Horo), the earth’s movement (Nuku), and the expanse of the sky (Rangi).”
‘Taihoro’ symbolises the boat’s evolutionary journey. It represents a transcendence of traditional boundaries, creating a connection between the sea and sky. Taihoro is more than a mere craft, it harnesses the power of nature, seamlessly transitioning between realms. ‘Taihoro’ is not just traversing the ocean, it bridges the gap between sea and sky in its quest for victory.
For more on this youth opportunity visit www.kiwicup.co.nz/regatta
Rayglass: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Since its inception, Rayglass Boats has been synonymous with innovation, quality, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Rayglass: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Since its inception, Rayglass Boats has been synonymous with innovation, quality, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This reputation has been solidified through its long-standing association with the prestigious America’s Cup, the pinnacle of competitive sailing. From humble beginnings to becoming an official supplier to elite racing teams, Rayglass’s journey in the America’s Cup is a testament to their engineering prowess and commitment to maritime excellence.
The Early Years: Establishing a Presence (1999-2000)
Rayglass first made waves in the America’s Cup during the 1999/2000 races. Initially, the company supplied patrol boats for the event, a vital role ensuring the safety and regulation of the races. Recognising the need for high-performance chase boats, Rayglass began providing 12-meter Protector Chase (center console) boats to several teams. These vessels quickly gained a reputation for their durability and reliability, crucial attributes in the high-stakes environment of the America’s Cup.
RIGHT Americas Cup AC30, Rayglass chanceboat.
2003: Official Supplier to Team New Zealand
In 2003, Rayglass’s commitment to quality and performance was rewarded when they became the official supplier to Team New Zealand (ETNZ). This partnership marked a significant milestone, cementing Rayglass’s position as a key player in the America’s Cup. The collaboration with ETNZ not only showcased the capabilities of Rayglass’s Protector boats but also highlighted their ability to meet the rigorous demands of top-tier competitive sailing.
Global Expansion and Recognition
The America’s Cup provided a global stage for Rayglass’s Protector range, propelling the brand to international acclaim. Today, Protector boats are utilised by some of the most prominent teams in the sailing world, including:
• ETNZ (Emirates Team New Zealand)
• Alinghi Red Bull Racing
• American Magic
• INEOS Britannia
These partnerships have helped Rayglass expand its market, with Protector boats now sold globally through dealers in the USA, Europe, and Australia.
The Protector Range: Versatility and Performance
Rayglass’s Protector boats are designed to excel in various roles, from commercial to recreational use. The Protector range includes:
These boats are renowned for their versatility, catering to a diverse clientele. Each vessel is custom-designed to meet specific client requirements, particularly in commercial applications.
Some notable commercial users include:
• Customs New Zealand
• Harbour Masters
• Coastguard New Zealand
• Coastal Protection and Border Patrol units
• Main state police units in the USA
• Commercial dive tenders and tourism operators (e.g., whale watching)
• Superyacht tenders
Recreational users also benefit from the superior performance and reliability of Protector boats, whether for commuting, private recreational boating, or as tenders for superyachts and private chase boats.
Support for Coastguard New Zealand
Rayglass’s commitment to maritime safety extends beyond commercial and recreational markets. Since the early 1990s, Rayglass has been a steadfast supporter of Coastguard New Zealand. Most recently, they supplied 26 Chase boats for the AC36 event, which were subsequently refitted for Coastguard units across New Zealand, thanks to a grant from the NZ Lotteries.
The Protector Brand: A Benchmark of Excellence
Rayglass’s Protector RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) are among the most capable and durable utility vessels worldwide. The success of the Protector brand is rooted in pride in product, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Since 1985, Rayglass has grown into a world leader in producing high-performance RIBs, designed to withstand the harshest conditions. The Protector Targa and Chase lines, ranging from 25 to 41 feet, exemplify this dedication to excellence in design, construction, and performance.
Rayglass’s legacy in the America’s Cup and beyond is a testament to their pursuit of perfection and their ability to adapt and innovate. As they continue to set new standards in maritime engineering, the world can look forward to more groundbreaking achievements from this iconic brand.
On the World Stage
Story by Suellen Hurling
Ryan Parkin
Women’s and Youth Americas Cup Umpire
Ryan Parkin, an esteemed international sailing umpire, has recently been selected for a prestigious role at the Youth and Women’s America’s Cup. His journey to this pinnacle of umpiring began in December 2019 when he achieved the status of International Umpire (IU). His extensive experience and deep knowledge of sailing rules have earned him a reputation for excellence in the field. Appointed by World Sailing, Ryan was chosen alongside Katie Maxim (USA) and Svenja Huensch (GER). This selection underscores his expertise and the high regard in which he is held within the sailing community.
Ryan’s resume boasts significant accomplishments, including his role as an IU at the Women’s World Match Racing Championships in 2022, hosted by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS), and at the World Match Racing Championships in 2023, where New Zealand’s KNOTS Racing emerged victorious. As a member of RNZYS for over 30 years, Ryan’s deep connection to the sailing world is evident.
His prowess is not just limited to understanding and applying the racing rules of sailing—he can quote any rule number on demand— but also extends to his strategic insight into match racing. Ryan can
predict and interpret maneuvers as they unfold, a skill that makes him invaluable in high-stakes competitions.
Umpiring at the America’s Cup, described by Ryan as the “Everest of umpiring opportunities,” represents a career highlight. Despite not being on the water, the umpires operate from a secure location equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including numerous screens and GPS positioning, allowing them to monitor every move and communicate with the race officer and other IUs.
Ryan’s passion for umpiring was sparked by Russell Green, who encouraged him to pursue this path 12 years ago. Reflecting on his journey, Ryan expresses a deep appreciation for the respect he receives from sailors and the thrill of the role. “I really like it,” he shares, adding that his excitement for the upcoming America’s Cup events will truly sink in once he arrives on site.
In summary, Ryan Parkin’s selection as an umpire for the Youth and Women’s America’s Cup is a testament to his dedication, skill, and standing in the sailing world. His career is marked by significant achievements, and his upcoming role promises to be another illustrious chapter in his umpiring journey.
Megan Kensington
Our Olympic Official
Megan Kensington, an International Race Officer and proud member of Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, has been selected to officiate at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she will a technical official on the iQFoil and Kite Foiling course. This selection is particularly significant as it marks the debut of these classes in the Olympic arena. Kensington’s role in this historic event is a great opportunity for her to further her knowledge and skills in running these classes.
Kensington’s journey in race management is illustrious and extensive. She served as an official on the finish boat for the RSX class at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, a role that showcased her attention to detail and unwavering commitment to the sport. Her portfolio of experience includes the 2019 Olympic Test Event, numerous world championships, and prestigious events such as the 2023 Disabled Sailing World Championship, which she describes as a humbling experience.
Her career highlights also include being a course layer for the America’s Cup in 2000 and managing the start of the Volvo Ocean Race in Auckland after the start was delayed to extreme weather conditions. More recently, she played pivotal roles in the 2020 Nacra 17, 49er, and 49erFX World Championships in Auckland, the 2022 Women’s Match Racing World Championships, and the 2023 Sail Sydney Regatta, where she was the technical officer for the iQFoil and Kite Foiling classes.
Kensington’s dedication extends beyond the racecourse. She actively contributes to the sport’s development as a member of the race management and training committee at Yachting New Zealand. She passionately advocates for career pathways in race management, especially encouraging more women to get involved. “There are pathways in race management for those who are interested, and I’m keen to get more people, particularly women, involved,” she emphasises.
Despite her demanding schedule, Kensington still manages to get out sailing occasionally. The last time she sailed was at the Tall Ships Regatta in January 2024. “I love sailing, and do it whenever I can, but just don’t put me on the bow,” she jokes.
Kensington tries her hardest to get out on an MRX with her friends as part of the Women’s Series. She is a crew regular with Sara Tucker, Karleen Dixon, Jenny Egnot, Jenny Jamison, Keryn McMaster, Paula Satterthwaite and a mix of other amazing women who all enjoy a well-deserved glass of vino together post-racing.
Her love for race management stems from its challenges and the opportunities it presents for growth and learning. “You have to be thick-skinned,” she notes. “Be prepared to know that you’re not always going to get it perfectly right. Be open to feedback and conversations. It’s not about us as race management, it’s about the sailors, and ensuring they have the best and fairest course to do what they do best.”
Kensington attributes her success to the support and mentorship she has received throughout her career. She extends her gratitude to John Parrish, Peter Carr, Judy Salthouse, Richard Slater, David Tallis, Shane Borrell, Harold Bennett, and Colin Lucas for their invaluable guidance.
Megan Kensington’s career is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and passion for sailing. Her contributions to the sport, both on and off the water, continue to inspire the next generation of race officials.
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Why Global Diversification is key in today’s environment
By Alistair Ross Financial Adviser
In the current economic climate, it’s evident that New Zealand is facing considerable challenges. Just recently we’ve witnessed profit downgrades from notable NZ companies like Spark, Tourism Holdings and Fletcher Building. During such turbulent times, it’s prudent for investors to scrutinise the domicile of their assets to avoid overexposure to a single market.
Assets are commonly classified into three primary categories:
Reviewing these categories, it’s apparent that a significant portion of the average Kiwi’s wealth is closely tied to New Zealand, with the exception of offshore investments in shares of offshore investments in shares or bonds.
Investing offshore offers several advantages. Over recent years, global equities, exemplified by indices like the S&P 500, have consistently outperformed NZ equities (see chart below of major share market indices over the past three years). This superior performance is attributed to stronger economic conditions in the Unites States, and the presence of several large, listed companies that are performing very well—think Microsoft, Amazon, Google, among others.
The US and European stock markets have thousands of listed companies, and many of these large companies are investing in growth themes that NZ companies cannot compete in. Some of these themes include the cloud, artificial intelligence, digital advertising and large-scale pharmaceuticals.
Source: Bloomberg
Moreover, offshore investments present potential currency benefits. Holding investments in foreign currencies, such as US dollars or UK pounds, shields against the fluctuations of the New Zealand dollar. Given New Zealand’s status as a small trading nation with a volatile currency, this diversification strategy becomes particularly relevant.
The chart below underscores the vulnerability of the New Zealand dollar, especially evident during events like the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) of 2008-2009. Currently trading around 60 cents against the US dollar, the New Zealand dollar’s value is influenced by interest rate differentials. With the weak NZ economy, there’s a likelihood of sharp rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RB(RBNZ) to stimulate growth.
Source: Bloomberg
In conclusion, diversifying investments beyond New Zealand’s borders not only enhances portfolio resilience, but also unlocks opportunities for superior returns and currency exposure. As investors navigate these challenging times, a strategic allocation of assets can mitigate risks and capitalise on global growth prospects.
Strength, courage, and the world’s biggest smile.
LEFT Lisa Blair being interviewed after finishing Sydney to Auckland.
Lisa Blair completes another world record with a powerful message.
Soaring in between Rangitoto Island and North Head at 9 knots, Lisa was welcomed by Squadron support vessels and the NewsHub Team after completing an 8 day, 3 hour and 19 minute journey from Sydney to Auckland, alone. Lisa Blair has become the fastest person ever to complete this passage solo and unassisted.
Not only has she claimed another solo sailing speed record, she has also become the first woman to make such a feat. These spectacular titles add to a long list of records set since her first departure from Australia in 2017, Something tells us the list will continue to accumulate.
ACHIEVEMENTS
2024
3x records as the fastest person and first woman to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted from Sydney to Auckland, and the establishment of a solo, non-stop and unassisted circumnavigation of New Zealand.
2022
2 x Fastest person to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around Antarctica and first women.
2018
2 x records as the fastest mono-hull to sail solo, non-stop, and unassisted around Australia and the first woman.
2017
First woman to sail solo around Antarctica with one-stop (dismasted).
From a nearby support boat we hear Lisa before we can see her – she’s elated - cheering and thrilled to see people and land after journeying more than 1400nm from Sydney. Blair was beaming as she helmed, trimmed, and manoeuvred her Robert Hick design 50-footer to the finish line.
A bubbly demeanour, her passion for climate and overwhelming strength captured our attention - she’s a powerhouse, relentless and, we think, about ready for a pit-stop on land.
Photo by Ella Sagnol, RNZYS.
Through the celebration and eleation, you wouldn’t be able to tell she’d just experienced some of the roughest conditions possible in the Tasman – she’s alive, alert and simply thrilled to be communicating her purpose. Because, other than being an exceptional sailor, she’s sailing the world with a poignant message. Her yacht aptly named Climate Action Now is just the beginning of the story. “I’m sailing to save our oceans and to show people that as an individual we all have the power to create change, it just starts with one action.
Throughout all her years sailing, Lisa has been passionately promoting the message for ‘Climate Action Now’, inspiring individuals to take positive actions, big or small, towards our environment. Lisa has collected thousands of post-it notes with environmental actions from community members on them, which now adorn the hull of Climate Action Now and serve as inspiration for herself and everyone she encounters. Her goal is to inspire individuals to take positive environmental actions and believes ‘together we can create our future’.
No sooner had she set foot on the dock in Westhaven, she was planning to set sail on another record- to be the fastest person and first woman to sail solo non-stop and unassisted around New Zealand. A record which had not yet been established. Early on the morning of Tuesday 7th May we accompanied Lisa back out to Rangitoto channel to start her round New Zealand record. 16 days and 23 hours later at dawn with a glistening moon disappearing and the sun rising over Rangitoto, we were there again to cheer her across the finish as she officially set the record for solo circumnavigating New Zealand.
Her journey had everything- orcas, storms, hours becalmed, she even set a new personal boat record surfing a swell at 23 knots.
“I’m so incredibly proud to have become the first person to sail solo around NZ, I faced all conditions and sailed through two storms on my journey before finishing in Auckland Harbour.
“I really worked hard the whole way around to set a time that I feel will be challenging to break and now I have no doubt a Kiwi will have a go soon,” said Lisa upon her arrival at the dock.
SPEAKING TO INSPIRE
Another string to Lisa’s bow sees her harnessing her infectious demeanour to wow an audience. Lisa holds captivating talks which both educate and raise funds for her campaign. As a motivational speaker, she tells stories of navigating the treacherous seas of change. Her talks empower leaders to cultivate resilience and mental agility, enabling them to harness the power of risk management and triumph over the storms of growth, stress, and disruption.
Lisa inspired Squadron members and guests with a live speaker event between her two New Zealand records, and a Storm Masterclass workshop the night before her departure back to Australia. Over
70 sailors and adventure enthusiasts packed the Dinghy Locker to listen to her captivating tale at the live speaker event spanning two Antarctic voyages and the research on her data collected in the Southern Ocean. A slightly smaller but enthusiastic crowd attended the Storm Masterclass where we learnt how to plan and prepare for southern ocean storms, and tips for yachties on how to best prepare to tackle these events.
THE STORY OF ANTARCTICA
During Lisa’s 2022 record which saw her become the fastest monohull to sail solo, non-stop, and unassisted around Antarctica (and the first woman), she expanded on her Climate Action Now initiative. Working in partnership with several scientific organisations around the world, Lisa was able to complete the following citizen science work:
• Ran a micro lab 24/7 measuring Ocean Health taking data sets like acidity, salinity and PCo2.
• Collected 180 microplastic samples.
• Deployed 8 weather-drifting buoys.
• Deployed an Argo Research Float.
• Mobile Weather station for the Bureau of Meteorology.
• Contributed seafloor depth data to the Seabed 2030 programme. Contributed to the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science through the OceanOPS Odyssey Programme.
Lisa worked in partnership with the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) to collect the most comprehensive microplastics dataset for the region, both in number of samples analysed and spatial coverage. A total of 178 seawater samples were continuously collected from the sub-surface of the Southern Ocean. Of these, 83 samples were processed and analysed.
In total, 5,325 Microplastics were visually identified under microscope, with nearly 50 percent of these being chemically confirmed to be microplastics, confirming the Southern Ocean to be broadly contaminated with microplastics regardless of proximity to land sources.
85.2% of the samples contained synthetic materials such as polyethylene, polyester, polypropylene and others and 64.8% of the microplastics found were fibres – not surprising, considering for every 2.5kg of laundry we produce over 300 microplastic fibres which are not retained in the machine!
Microplastic concentrations found at Point Nemo (the most remote region on the planet) were around average – meaning that ocean currents might be influencing the levels of contamination rather than simply the proximity to anthropogenic activity areas (areas influenced by humans).
Follow Lisa across social media and get all the latest news on her adventures at www.LisaBlairSailstheWorld.com
LISA’S TIPS TO MINIMISE YOUR IMPACT
• Microplastics is sadly present across the world’s oceans and in our ecosystems but there are plenty of actions you can take to minimise your contribution.
• Install a filter on your washing machine
• Buy natural material clothing
• Be mindful of plastic pollution in the streets and waterways, and dispose of your bottles correctly
• Drive less reducing tyre turnover - bonus, you also save CO2 emissions.
• Invest in quality products and repair over replace
• Spend wisely - you are voting with your dollar
Join us in Barcelona!
PURCHASE OUR “SQUADRON TRAVEL PACKAGE”
Choice of hotels: Novotel or Sofitel (150m from the race course)
Official RNZYS Gala Dinner at the incredible Maritime Museum
One day AC37 “off the water” hospitality
Evening cocktails at Real Club Nautico Barcelona
Exclusive sightseeing tours, including city sights with Sagrada Familia (optional tours include Tapas and Park Guell)
Official members bar
Exclusive “surprise” member experiences.
Priced from NZ$7,740 per person
SELLING QUICKLY
DON’T DELAY!
More information and bookings online (via QR code above), or contact Kelsey Bezuidenhout, phone 04 891 1000, or email: kelsey.bezuidenhout@bcdtravel.co.nz
Ella Sagnol
Get to know the RNZYS team.
Story by Suellen Hurling
At 30 years old, Ella Sagnol has already accumulated an impressive 20-year sailing career.
Her journey began in the coastal town of Yeppoon, Australia, where she served as the Sports Manager for the Keppel Bay Sailing Club. There, she honed her skills on a variety of vessels including the Hobie 16, Arrows, F18, Sharpie, Elliott 780, and keelboats, filling any and every position on deck.
In August 2023, driven by a passion for sailing and a Google search that led her to the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS), Ella made the significant decision to ditch the sunshine of North Queensland and relocate to the land of the long white cloud after accepting a position of the manager of Major Projects and Communications. Since then, she has immersed herself in the vibrant sailing community.
Ella’s enthusiasm for sailing in New Zealand is palpable. “I love it here,” she says, highlighting the camaraderie and the exceptional yachting experiences she has encountered. Among her most memorable moments are a night sail on Lion NZ with the Mastercard Youth Training Programme, participating in the PIC Coastal Classic on Kaimai Flyer (Young 11), and diving into the NZ Women’s Match Racing Championships with no prior match racing experience. These experiences, along with the thrill of starting the Helly Hansen Three Kings Race on V5 and competing in the Young 88 Nationals on Fatal Attraction, have enriched her sailing journey in NZ.
Not just a sailor, Ella is also a keen kite surfer, constantly seeking the next big send. Her vibrant personality and love for the sport are infectious. Despite her deep roots in Australian sailing, her allegiance
took a humorous turn when she witnessed the Aussie SailGP team crash into a mark, prompting her to “officially become a Kiwi” that weekend in Christchurch.
Ella’s professional career actually started on a loft floor as a sailmaker, but she wanted to be more immersed in the scene, hence moving into the promotional side of sailing. “I’ve always wanted to be involved with the sport, and now it’s my job to play with boats,” she says with a smile.
While she enjoys her new life in New Zealand, Ella hasn’t completely turned her back on Australia. She plans to return for sailing adventures, though not in the immediate future. For now, she’s content with the strong sense of community she has found at RNZYS, appreciating the supportive and enthusiastic members, especially her fellow Australians who also made the move to this side of the ditch, and the women in the Squadron.
“RNZYS is awesome. I’m happy to have found an amazing community of like-minded people, especially the Aussies I’ve met – and the women. There is a sense of belonging to something extrodinary every time I walk through the grand entrance to the clubhouse. And seeing the America’s Cup on display everyday is just awesome,” said Ella.
With her infectious enthusiasm and a heart firmly anchored in the love of sailing, Ella Sagnol continues to navigate her course, bringing energy and passion to every sail she embarks upon.
Ella looks after Major Projects and Communications for the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron.
CREW APPAREL EXPERT
MASTERCARD YOUTH TRAINING PROGRAMME
Winter Training Update
Winter training has been progressing well for our 40 strong group of Youth. We’ve been fortunate to have favorable wind conditions most weekends, allowing us to maximize our sailing sessions. As we head towards team selections later this year, friendly competition has been building within the cohort.
This year, we are incredibly fortunate to have two scholarships generously provided by Mastercard and Barfoot & Thompson. These scholarships are vital in recognizing and nurturing the talent emerging from our program.
Marin Armstrong-Wills received the Barfoot & Thompson Scholarship this year. This is Marin’s third year in the program, and he is well-known and well-liked around the club. Marin has grown as a leader, mentoring younger athletes and always lending a hand. This season, he has also joined MR Kite II to further develop his skills.
Keiley, now in his fourth year, has shown tremendous dedication to the program. Initially driving up from Napier each weekend, he has since moved to Auckland and now sails his own boat—a Ross 830—in the North Sails Winter Series. Congratulations to these two outstanding young men.
Over King’s Birthday weekend, three Mastercard Youth Training Programme teams, along with coach Zak, traveled to Wellington to compete in the Centerport Youth International Match Racing Championship. Congratulations to the team of Ethan Fong, Hugo McMullen, Maddie Rist, and Harry McMullen for achieving their best result as a team, finishing third on the podium. They sailed clean and fast, not dropping a single race in the round robin. When asked about his mentality for the week, Ethan simply responded, “Pressure’s a privilege.”
Hayden Smith, Sam Scott, and Luca Smith also had a solid regatta, finishing in fourth place. Despite being the lightest team at the event, they made up for it with hard work. Our third team, Rowdy Racing, led by Rory Sims and consisting of Vivien Webster, Sophie-Jo, and Tim McCulloch, showed promising starts throughout the week but struggled to put it all together around the course. They are definitely a team to watch, and we will be focusing on improving their around-the-course positioning in the coming weeks.
Zak Merton, Performance Sailing Manager
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YTP group photo outside RNZYS
Discovering Elegance
The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron Event Space and Culinary Delights
Nestled in the heart of Auckland, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) is not just a beacon for yachting enthusiasts but also a premier destination for hosting unforgettable events. Renowned for its rich maritime history and picturesque waterfront views, the RNZYS offers an extraordinary blend of sophisticated event spaces and exquisite culinary experiences.
A Venue with a View
The RNZYS boasts a variety of event spaces designed to cater to diverse occasions, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Each space is meticulously designed to provide an elegant and comfortable environment, all while offering breathtaking views of the Waitematā Harbour. The Squadron Ballroom, the most distinguished of the venues, features floor-to-ceiling windows that allow guests to bask in the natural beauty of the marina. With a capacity to accommodate up to 250 guests, it’s perfect for weddings, corporate events, and gala dinners.
For smaller, more intimate events, the Quarterdeck and Commodore’s Lounge offer a cozy yet sophisticated setting. These spaces are ideal for private dinners, business meetings, or cocktail parties, providing an exclusive atmosphere with stunning harbor views.
Culinary Excellence
The culinary offerings at the RNZYS are nothing short of exceptional. The Squadron’s in-house catering team is dedicated to delivering a dining experience that rivals the finest restaurants in Auckland. Emphasizing locally sourced ingredients, the menu is a testament to New Zealand’s rich culinary heritage.
Guests can indulge in a variety of dishes that highlight the freshest seafood, premium meats, and seasonal produce. From canapés and hors d’oeuvres to multi-course gourmet dinners, each dish is crafted with precision and creativity. The RNZYS is also renowned for its bespoke menu options, allowing hosts to tailor the dining experience to the specific tastes and preferences of their guests.
Exceptional Service
At the heart of the RNZYS’s event hosting success is its commitment to impeccable service. The experienced events team works closely with clients to ensure every detail is perfect, from initial planning to execution. Their attention to detail and dedication to excellence ensure that each event is unique and memorable.
Whether it’s setting up a state-of-the-art AV system for a corporate presentation, arranging beautiful floral decorations for a wedding, or coordinating a seamless dining service, the RNZYS team goes above and beyond to exceed expectations. Their professionalism and passion for hospitality are evident in every aspect of their service.
A Destination for All Occasions
The versatility of the RNZYS’s event spaces, combined with its culinary prowess and exceptional service, makes it an ideal venue for a wide range of events. From high-profile corporate functions and product launches to personal milestones such as birthdays and anniversaries, the RNZYS provides a setting that elevates any occasion.
Moreover, the location itself adds a layer of prestige and charm. Hosting an event at the RNZYS not only offers guests a taste of luxury but also an opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant maritime culture that defines Auckland.
Where will you host your next event?
The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron stands as a testament to the perfect blend of elegance, sophistication, and exceptional service. Its stunning event spaces, coupled with outstanding culinary offerings, make it a premier choice for anyone looking to host a remarkable event. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the RNZYS promises an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on you and your guests.
Story by Suellen Hurling
Iconic Rainbow II sets new course
Classic Yacht Charitable Trust seeking new owner
By Larry Paul
Rainbow II commands an important place in our racing history and the history of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, whose members raised almost £20,000 in the 1960s (no small sum at that time) to participate in their first international challenge – the 1969 One Ton Cup – in Heligoland, Germany. The 36ft 6in Sparkman & Stephens design, built by Max Carter in 1966 for Chris Bouzaid, was famously skippered to glory by Chris under the squadron flag, thereby catapulting New Zealand to the fore of ocean racing on the world stage.
In Chris Bouzaid’s words:
“I take a lot of pride in the fact that people in a position to judge these things claim that Rainbow II’s feats in the late 1960s, backing up Jim Davern’s 1966 line honours win in Fidelis in the Sydney-Hobart, are credited with launching the New Zealand invasion of
ocean racing which, in the next 40 years, resulted in Kiwi designed boats and crews winning every major event in the world offshore racing scene, most of them more than once…”
When in 2009 Chris came across Rainbow II in poor condition in Bermuda, he and John Street decided this icon of our maritime history should return to New Zealand. Chris quickly set about acquiring her and he and John subsequently organised her return and restoration with Wayne Olsen and Mike Smith at Horizon Boats Ltd. Invaluable volunteer helpers included Max Carter, John
“Bulldog” Street, Tony “Womble” Barclay, and Roy “Rocket” Dickson.
Rainbow II was relaunched in August 2014, in time for the RNZYS One Ton Cup Revisited Regatta in March 2015, and Chris Bouzaid and some of his original crew once again demonstrated her prowess, winning the regatta with impressive 2/1/1/1/2 placings.
In 2016 skipper and boat builder Neil Gillard took charge of Rainbow II and, with support from John Street and Chris Bouzaid, completed a full interior fit out at Chris McMullen’s yard in 2017 to improve her cruising capabilities. She is now in top racing and cruising condition and her current custodian and owner, the Classic Yacht Charitable Trust, seeks a new owner for this iconic NZ yacht.
Rainbow II is on public display at Heritage Landing, Silo Park, Auckland. More information about her and her history can be found on www.classicyachtcharitabletrust. org.nz. To discuss this opportunity to own such a significant piece of New Zealand’s maritime history contact the Chair of the Classic Yacht Charitable Trust, Larry Paul: 021 280 0360.
Rainbow II out of the water.
Racing in the One Ton Cup revisited regatta 2015. Photo by Ivor Wilkins.
“There’s a lot of history here, aye…”
Colin Davidson talks to Penelope Carroll about restoring and maintaining old boats
These days Colin Davidson lives and works in the decommissioned petrol station at Waianakarua in Central Otago he converted into a home and a “great big workshop” 15 years ago. His home/workshop and the town hall are the only buildings left, he says: “It’s a ghost town now, but it’s my happy place.”
In the workshop is an almost-restored 33-foot Abeking and Rasmussen 30-squaremetre German boat built in 1931; a 14-foot wooden speedboat from the 1950s rescued from a New Years Eve bonfire; and a Frostbite he is converting to a gaff rig to sail on the Waitaki Valley lakes in summer. Languishing outside in the yard is Cressie (pictured), a 24-foot clinker yacht built in the 1950s: “She is a real basket case, but she is recoverable. So many beautiful things just get dumped,” he says
Bought up on Northcote Point, it was through Sea scouts at Little Shoal Bay that Colin was introduced to sailing, first in a P class, then later racing his own Flying Ant and Idle-along. His boat restoration career began in the late ‘80s when he discovered the Wooden Boat Workshop in Stanley Street, a cooperative of boat builders run by John Simpson and John Matheson. He had already completed a carpentry apprenticeship and now began an adult boatbuilding apprenticeship (with Robert Brooke his tutor).
The Wooden Boat Workshop then moved into the since-demolished old Kauri Timber Company Building in Fanshawe St. That was where Prize was restored, beginning Colin’s association with the CYA. Back then, he says, the company would make a wood dinghy as a spot prize for the CYA prize-
Congratulations!
Two CYA members have this year been awarded a New Zealand Order of Merit. Congratulations to Andrew Barnes, who was named an ONZM in the King’s Birthday Honours! And congratulations (again) to Joyce Talbott, who was awarded an MNZM in New Years Honours.
giving. And there was also, memorably, the pirate ship float built for Tony Stevenson, which later in 1995 headed the parade up Queen Street for the returning victorious Team New Zealand.
When the Wooden Boat Workshop “went down the gurgler” because of a few bad customers, staff formed the Wooden Boat Company and moved to the corner of Westhaven Drive where they restored the 45-foot classic Dyarchy, designed by William Garden. “But we didn’t last long… we closed up shop in 1999.”
After three years working on superyachts, Colin returned to work on wooden boats with Colin Brown: “There was Aramoana, Turcana, Lady Gaye, the interior of Tawera, and I rebuilt the wheelhouse of Torea.” There was also work on Sir Francis Chichester’s Gypsy Moth. “She’d been in a museum for years, set off on a round-the-world trip for the bi-centennary celebrations in Sydney, crashed in Tahiti and was shipped here to repair a huge hole in her hull. We had lots of very flash people come to see the work, including Princess Anne…”
After a break of a couple of years Colin then spent six years with Blueworld Yachting in the Viaduct, working on the Tino Rawa Trust boat Wild Duck and the boat in the movie The Light Between the Oceans, among others.
He just “fell into” restoring classics, which has included his own 24-foot F-class 1902 cutter Dolphin, says Colin. (She was Rebecca when she was wrecked on the rocks off Okahu Bay in 1988 and Colin and friend Michael Knight bought her from the insurance company and gave her back her
original name). “She was tragic…”
Among the many boats Colin has helped restore are four Logans – Tawera, Iorangi, Rainbow and Ariki. “Ariki was the last. I rebuilt the cockpit and the rudder and refitted the interior over a five- month period at Okahu Bay.”
Now semi-retired, Colin is part of the Oamaru Friendly Bay Boat Society, a classic wooden boat club connected to the Oamaru Yacht Club and working to create an annual classic yacht regatta in Oamaru: “We would like to become part of the South Island regatta circuit.” And aside from his own restoration projects, he has on-going work keeping various old wooden boats afloat, including fishing boats at Careys Bay, a Herreshoff at Akaroa, and several Nigel Jeffcoats in Oamaru.
As Colin says, “there’s a lot of history here, aye…”
Cressie, rescued from a New Years bonfire, awaits restoration.
Colin Davidson with his dog Woody.
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Vessev Launches World’s First Premium
Tourism Electric Hydrofoiling Vessel
In early May, we were excited to see a new revolutionary electric hydrofoiling vessel launch in Westhaven Marina. The vessel, named ‘VS-9’, entered the water for the first time to undergo sea trials and is on track to be the first vessel of its kind in the world to be certified for commercial use. By partnering with Fullers360, the VS-9 will soon become the first fully electric passenger vessel to operate in Auckland and the first hydrofoiling tourism vessel to operate in the world. The partnership falls in line with the Fullers360 intention to be 100% electric or hydrogen operated by 2040.
Company Vessev, formally Seachange, is a global leader in sustainable marine technology based in New Zealand and led by former Apple Watch engineering program lead Eric Laakmann (CEO) and Max Olson (founder and CTO). The company combines state-of-the-art technology created for
International Paints achieves Australian Made Accredition
sport sailing, with vehicle electrification, and robotics into an entirely new class of vessel.
So, what makes the Vessev’s VS-9 so special? The vessel has enhanced stability to master any sea condition, with its foils enabling it to ride completely above the waves, providing a smoother passenger experience than conventional vessels and enhancing its operational capability. Taking off at 18-19 knots, the VS-9 can transition from foil assist to full foiling mode, cruising with optimum efficiency between 22-25 knots. The foil stabilisation systems enter operation at 12 knots, reducing pitch and roll motion even when not fully on foils and ‘flying’. The VS-9 is constructed using carbon fibre laminates and can be berthed and charged at almost any marina.
We look forward to seeing this inspiring new technology unlock more opportunities on the water.
VS-9 Specifications
Length: 8.95m
Weight: 4 tonnes fully loaded
Power: Battery electric
Capacity: 10 passengers
Crew: 1 skipper
Top speed: 30 knots, 55km
Cruise speed: 25 knots
Range: Up to 50 nautical miles at 25 knots
Charging: Up to 90kW
Congratulations to our partner, International Paints, who have recently been awarded Australian Made Accreditation and are the first yachting paint company to do so. This accreditation has been achieved through the International Paints commitment to support local craftsmanship with premium quality products.
Irina Atanasova, AkzoNobel’s Yacht Sales Manager for Australia, said “This decision
underscores our commitment to supporting local industries and upholding stringent quality standards. As part of AkzoNobel, a global company with a strong local presence, we are dedicated to contributing to the growth and sustainability of Australian manufacturing. By proudly displaying the Australian Made logo, we reinforce our dedication to excellence.”
For more information visit www.akzonobel.com.
The latest in Volunteer Citizen Science with ‘Citizens of the Sea’
Every year, thousands of experienced and well-equipped seafarers venture offshore— ocean cruisers, racers, and commercial vessels. Citizens of the Sea gives these ocean champions technology and purpose. Citizens of the Sea, co-founded by Cawthron Institute (NZ) and New Zealand Geographic, has recruited sailors in the 2024 Pacific Rally to help understand the health and function of the Pacific Ocean. 25 boats involved in the Cruising Association’s Pacific Rally, an annual, four to six-month passage through the Pacific Islands are currently taking part in the initiative.
The crews will capture important data on ocean biodiversity and coral reef health from remote sites that are typically difficult for scientists to access. The primary goal of the initiative is to build a platform that provides insights into shifting patterns of life in our oceans.
The 25 crews in the Pacific will be the first group to collect environmental DNA (eDNA) —the traces of biological material that all species leave behind in the environment during their voyages. Leading local scientists and conservation groups in each island are working with the Citizens of the Sea who call the initiative ‘a more comprehensive and considerably faster way of assessing biodiversity in marine environments than the physical surveys traditionally used to map and sample species’.
By gathering this important data through citizen scientists (in this case the sailors) Citizens of the Sea will be able to stretch the realms of science, while the many sailors involved are excited to have a new sense of purpose. Sailors on board cruisers, racers and commercial vessels represent an enormous untapped resource to help map ocean health.
The research will allow scientists to identify which species are present and how that distribution shifts in space and time due to climate change. All data collected will be open sourced and publicly accessible via www.citizensofthesea.org in late 2024. You can follow updates on the sailors’ journeys at the Citizens of the Sea website.
DOCKSIDE
Introducing Jade Pienaar: PIC’s new Marine Manager
A love for being near the water, a passion for pleasurecraft and exceptional people skills saw Jade Pienaar recently taking on the role of Marine Manager for our partners, PIC Insurance Brokers. We caught up with Jade to learn more about what makes her tick and her new role.
Tell us a bit about yourself… Originally from South Africa, my parents made the move to New Zealand when I was 13.
After going out fishing my dad decided we would settle in Whangaparaoa despite our extended family living in Howick – All of us have to be close to the beach. I go to the beach most mornings as being around, in or on the water is my happy place.
Can you share more about your work background and how you ended up becoming the Marine Manager with PIC?
I fell into insurance, as many in the industry do, with a call centre role 13 years ago. Shortly after I started, an amazing underwriter explained pleasurecraft insurance to us. His knowledge and passion had me hooked - I knew that would be my place in the industry. I worked toward gaining experience with guidance from strong marine underwriters who have quickly become my mentors.
In a previous role I dealt closely with PIC Insurance Brokers for pleasurecraft policies. The team and I spoke multiple times a day, we used to joke a lot that I should just move my desk into their office! Forming great relationships over the years, always knowing
paths will cross again in the future, (it is funny now to see my name in the archived documents). Fast forward to now, I am so grateful to have this opportunity to be a part of PIC.
What are you most excited about in this role?
I couldn’t wait to be back in the sector I love, I find the marine industry – pleasurecraft in particular- fascinating. I am so happy to work with the team – everyone is great! [There are] a lot of familiar faces (or voices), and a few new ones who have all been so welcoming.
The New Zealand Marine Insurance market has drastically over the last 5 years, and it will be interesting to see how it changes in the next 5. Providing solutions for our clients’ insurance needs is what we are here to do.
You mentioned that the water is your happy place - do you have an affinity with any on-water activities?
My dad is a keen fisherman so would take us out on the water from a young age on his paddle-ski or runabout be it for fishing or water activities.
Growing up in South Africa, we would often go camping where all the family boats would
be in the water ready to go, I would be the first in the water while waiting to get out on the boats, and the last out at the end of the day.
Although I have enjoyed being onboard, I am a novice when it comes to sailing - I cannot wait to start learning!
Our members will be excited to meet you, will we see you at the club soon?
I recently enjoyed an evening at the RNZYS recently and loved it – I even managed to get a cheeky picture with the trophy! The club is stunning with so much history, and the members are so welcoming.
Yes, you will get to see me at the club regularly, most likely for breakfast, quiz night or Tasting Evening to start with, and I am really looking forward to Women’s Day Out in August – as nervous as I am, I am so eager to learn to sail!
If you do see me around, please say hi – I am really looking forward to being part of the RNZYS community!
RNZYS is delighted to welcome new & returning corporate members
Clean Corp
RNZYS is delighted to welcome back Clean Corp as a Corporate Member and cleaners of the Westhaven facilities.
With decades of experience under their belt, Cleancorp is a vibrant, New Zealand owned and operated Commercial Cleaning Franchise company. Specialising in large industrial sites and educational institutes, they have a significant share of the commercial cleaning market for these industries in New Zealand, a testament to their reputation for reliability, professionalism, and unwavering quality. Contact them today for a quote!
Upholstery Specialist
We are delighted to welcome Josh and the Upholstery Specialists Team to the RNZYS Family. As a long term member of RNZYS – it was only natural for Josh to extend his support through to his company. Upholstery Specialists is New Zealand’s largest provider of leading upholstery products and services. They manufacturer custom products for living, marine, auto, and commercial applications, while also carrying out extensive repairs and re-upholstery across every sector. While their customers drawn from cruising yachtsmen to nationwide restaurant chains and everyone in between, they are proud to say no matter how big or small the job, customers leave Upholstery Specialists with an end result they love. The excellent work of Josh and his team is showcased on the new covers for the Emirates Team New Zealand Elliott 7 fleet.
Motuihe Group
The RNZYS is delighted to welcome Motuihe Group as a Corporate Partner. Motuihe Group specialises in Public Relations and Corporate communications. A key feature of the organisations work is achieving high value media exposure for their clients with an enviable success rate through a content led approach. Supporting clients every step of the way, including comprehensive media training, sees businesses, organisations and individuals prepared and ready for all opportunities and outcomes. With Director Hamish Williams at the helm, an active RNZYS Member and sailor – Motuihe Group know how to talk our language and support the RNZYS.
Live Sail Die
Live Sail Die (LSD) has partnered with Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron to create the Kiwi Cup offerings which has now morphed from a raffle, into a regatta and America’s Cup tour. In addition to this, LSD is supporting RNZYS with digital content creation and management, including the rebuild of the new website which will be launched in the coming months. The LSD team was also engaged to create the quarterly Breeze magazine, including this edition that you’re reading!
Photography is a big part of the LSD offerings to RNZYS, and to ensure that members can benefit from this partnership, you can now use the 15% discount code RNZYS+LSD when purchasing high resolution images from their extensive photography gallery.
Catch up on all the sailing news – visit www. livesaildie.com and sign up to their email news alerts.
Sign your friends up for a free $50 Members Bar
Voucher
We are proud to be one of the most prestigious sporting clubs in New Zealand, and a world leading international yacht club with excellent reciprocity opportunities across the globe. You’ll find your people at our club, and a family of enthusiasts across the globe who will welcome you with open arms too. But that is just one reason to encourage your friends and family to join us.
The first 50 members to successfully encourage a friend or family member to sign up as a member of our club will receive a $50 Members Bar credit!
From dabbling in ladies Mahjong, to exploring wine tastings, indulging in glamourous lunches, dancing the night away at parties, sailing in harbour races and more – if your friends aren’t here, they’re missing out. Our new membership categories are tailored to how you use the club and connect with your community and make membership more affordable and accessible to others.
If you have friends who regularly crew on a yacht but don’t have a club membership, this is the time to get them signed up. From just $475 annually, those who enjoy spending time at our events and on the water can be members of our club – they can even pay just $40 monthly!
If you and your community simply want to make the most of the offwater events and venue offerings, you can now encourage friends to sign up as a Clubhouse member for just $300 annually, or $25 per month. Depending on their age and stage of life, they may be eligible for a new full membership too, with some age groups paying a fraction of the cost.
We hope to see more people take advantage of membership offerings so that they too can enjoy our food and beverage offering, room hire, bottle shop, retail, training courses and unmatched on and off-water events.
Whether keen sailors or not, we implore you to encourage your communities to make the most of our space – with the best views in town, why wouldn’t they want to join us?!
Get a friend to sign up to the club now and you’ll receive a free $50 Members Bar credit to enjoy.
*Offer limited to the first 50 new member referrals
UPCOMING EVENTS
There is a huge variety events coming up over winter which we’d love to see you at. Here’s a few we think you might enjoy.
• Jolly July
• Women’s Day Out
• Tastings
• Annual General Meeting
Contribute to your community, today.
There’s plenty of ways that you can help the club thrive. Get involved as an event volunteer, simply reach out to Beth Orton to learn how you can help.
Learn more about our membership categories and events on offer at rnzys.org.nz or email membership@rnzys.org.nz
Start your journey to the sky long before you leave the land
Driving stronger communities through grassroots sport.
We believe grassroots sports are essential to young Kiwis, not just for health bene ts, but the ability to unite communities and people from all walks of life. That’s why, through our Toyota Store network, we support over 130 sports teams and clubs across New Zealand.
