BREEZE AUTUMN 2024

BREEZE

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FROM THE COMMODORE

Andrew Aitken

Wow, what a great summer it has been both on and off the water.

When the sun comes out good things tend to happen, and we are certainly seeing some of that at RNZYS as our ‘REBUILD’ starts to gain momentum.

Our lean operational team led by General Manager Sarah Wiblin, together with a staunch group of volunteers are delivering positive outcomes for your club.

Some of the great things that have happened include:

• Assembly and launch of the new fleet of Elliott 7’s - Thanks to Emirates Team New Zealand.

• Introduction of a new membership structure which offers substantial opportunities to younger members as well as a new ‘Clubhouse’ membership for those that live nearby.

• Continued growth of our Lighthouse Café offering.

• The Ocean Women’s Summit – part of the Moana Auckland Festival.

• The 36 Degrees Brokers Squadron Weekend at Kawau Island.

• The International Youth Match Racing Event

- Congratulations to third generation member Josh Hyde and his team who won the event.

• Our Corporate Regatta which raised money for youth sailing.

• The introduction of a long-term tenant to our Westhaven premises. Welcome to Nikki Kaye and her Blue Nature Aotearoa Trust. This tenancy aligns with our sustainability drive and brings valuable income to your club.

With the arrival of the new Elliott 7’s, we have been able to sell and deliver our previous fleet to Bucklands Beach Yacht Club together with Pembles Bay, one of our aluminum patrol boats. We are also continuing to work with Kawau Boating Club on the sale of the yacht club premises, facilities, and associated land.

Our sailing programmes, member events programme, food and beverage business, and our events business, have continued to operate through this time with much success, despite the headwinds currently being felt through many sectors of our economy. Looking forward, while we have the difficulty for the next nine or 10 months of the single-lane road leading to our club due to the reconstruction of the services trench and the sea-wall - there are several great opportunities on the horizon.

The naming and launch of Emirates Team New Zealand’s new AC75 is due and will give us all a small taste of what is to come in Barcelona. For those members attending Barcelona as part of our club programme, there is a strong sense that this will be a great occasion.

Our team are currently planning what we will be doing at the club at this time – it is not just the 37th America’s Cup Defence we have

to look forward to, there is also the Challenger Series, as well as the Youth and Women’s America’s Cup events.

The anticipated Helly Hansen Three Kings Race is coming up the calendar quickly along with the annual prize-giving and the start of our winter series.

The Club REBUILD is very much about members using the club, to do this we have to deliver for members. There are always opportunities to improve.

In late January, the General Committee together with members of all our various Sub-Committees (e.g. Sailing Committee, Membership Committee, House Committee, Finance & Risk Committee, Future Auckland Committee and Sustainability Committee) participated in a strategic planning review. While our team are all working very hard to deliver for you, our members, we now have a roadmap to take us forward into the future.

Momentum is building, for those that are participating, thank you all for being part of the REBUILD of your Club, for others, please support our drive to REBUILD our club to be the best that it can be – it won’t happen immediately, but I can assure you that good things are happening.

I look forward to seeing you on the water and around the club in the months ahead.

Talk

soon. Andrew Aitken Commodore

LIGHTHOUSE CAFE

FROM THE General Manager

Sarah Wiblin

As a fabulous summer both on and off the water comes to a close and it starts to get cooler, I reflected on the incredible work of many of our volunteers and staff over the last three months. This summer has been our busiest in many years with our usual calendar of events including the Rayglass Squadron Picnic, 36 Degrees Brokers Squadron Weekend, Youth International and the Schools Regatta, plus our weekly racing programme. With the additions of the Ocean Women’s Summit, Corporate Regatta and Charity Auction, alongside the commissioning and launch of the new Emirates Team New Zealand Elliott 7’s, the year has definitely started with more member offerings and events than ever and it has been great to deliver many fabulous member activities that so many of you have enjoyed.

I am particularly thrilled with the response from existing members and our wider community to the new membership offering - it’s great to see many new people currently joining our club. In the coming weeks we will be contacting members with further information, and before our new membership year starts on 1st May if we believe there may be a more

suitable membership category for you. If you would like to discuss your membership with us, please contact Beth and the team who are doing an excellent job in guiding members through this journey.

The maintenance and development work being undertaken in front of the clubs on the Northern Reclamation is going to create some disruptions and delays accessing this area of the marina and your club. We ask that you support this important work and continue to support your club during the work phase. On completion, the project will provide a revitalised waterfront while reducing the risk of water inundation from sea level rise and severe weather events such as last year’s cyclone, to all the clubs positioned along the waterfront and the wider marina.

We are now less than six months away from Emirates Team New Zealand’s defence of the 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona. We have an impressive program of events planned both in New Zealand and Barcelona and are looking forward to celebrating this with our members. With the new AC75 launching in just a few weeks, and a strong training and testing program for this boat planned, it will be great to see her on the waters in front of our club. The teams Youth and Women’s training programs are also starting to increase, and having two AC40’s to match race in will be an important part of the training and build up for these teams. We are looking forward to the May 15th Members Breakfast which

will be the last opportunity for members to come together and hear from Emirates Team New Zealand in person while the team is still based in New Zealand. Following the Members Breakfast, the America’s Cup OE party on the 27th July will provide a fun opportunity to celebrate our America’s Cup success over the years, and bid a fond farewell to the Cup before it heads off on its big OE this year. If you are planning on travelling to Barcelona, make sure you register on our website for all the updates and access to member benefits during the event period.

I want to take a moment to thank the many members and staff who have contributed to this edition of Breeze, the first since the retirement of Ivor, Debbie and Deborah. We have big shoes to fill in delivering the Breeze moving forward, and I am incredibly proud of all those that have contributed to bringing this magazine together. You may notice a few subtle changes and we are planning to evolve and grow our member magazine in the year ahead. We are excited to share these changes with you as the year progresses.

As we head into the Autumn months I look forward to seeing many of you around the Club for the great events we have planned. Mother’s Day, our Annual Prize Giving, Quiz Nights, Tasting Nights and many more events are just around the corner.

Sarah Wiblin General Manager

Three Kings –Just three capes, a washing machine and you’re there!

The Manawatāwhi /Three Kings Islands are typically known as a fishing and diving destination, but for a select few yachting enthusiasts, the Three Kings are a bunch of islands that sailors hope to round in daylight, and at 20 knots with the chute up!

The Helly Hansen Three Kings Race is approximately 500nm in length, taking a racing fleet from the Waitematā Harbour, up the coastline, past Cape Brett, Cape Rodney and Cape Reinga. From there, a sea state with a mind of its own comes into play, where two tidal systems merge together creating a washing machine in the open ocean. At times, the current can be over four knots, so you want to converge on that part of the race in a decent amount of breeze!

Speaking with sailors ahead of the race, the biggest concern is getting all that way up the coast, having nighttime fall, and missing the spectacular views of the Three Kings Islands.

At the time of writing this, 10 boats had entered the fully crewed division, with seven in the two-handed. That’s 17 boats in total keen to

take on the challenge.

Serena (Josh Adams), a Thompson 38 will have their eyes on newcomers to the fleet, Perfect Storm (Lori Tyrrell) a Stomp 38, with the similar yachts going head-to-head in the fully-crewed division.

Serena has been a big player on the local circuit for several seasons, so the race is on between them and Perfect Storm for 38-footer domination.

Lori Tyrrell, owner / skipper of the Stomp 38 Perfect Storm, is excited for the race ahead.

“Perfect Storm is a bit of a weapon, and we’ve overhauled a lot of her systems and modified things to allow us to manage her two handed.”

“Having only owned her for just over 12 months we recognise we are a little under done on miles as a two-handed team for this race, so we’ve enlisted Ken’s 2020 RNI co-skipper, Sam Tucker and his 2023 RNI co-skipper Ryan Wiblin to join the crew for this year’s Three Kings Race. Adding Sam and Ryan to the mix will help us push Perfect Storm hard to see what she is capable of and help speed up how to dial her in, so we

Photography by Suellen Hurling

Wired in the 2022 edition of the Three Kings race

Photography by Ivor Wilkins

are as ready and as prepared as we can be for the 2026 Round North Island campaign we are working toward,” continued Lori.

“Being able to race against Serena adds another exciting element - it is pretty much the closest we get to one-design racing, so to be able to do that over such a challenging long-haul race is about as good as it gets for us!”

“We may not beat Serena, but chances are we will keep them on their toes and may even give them a run for their money!” said Lori.

This is the second time that the RNZYS has hosted the Three Kings Race. When we first ran the race in 2022, the results were dominated by

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the BW52 Wired, owned and skippered by Rob Bassett. They finished with an elapsed time of 2 days, 3 hours, 42 minutes, and 39 seconds. This will be the time to beat!

The Helly Hansen Three Kings Race is basically a massive windward/ leeward, but with lots of twists and turns, there are plenty of overtaking lanes within the race.

Each boat will be fitted with a YB tracker so that land lubbers, supporters and loved ones at home can “virtually” watch everything unfold.

And let’s not forget that the top placed RNZYS boat on PHRF wins an OMEGA Seamaster timepiece valued at $12,000 smakaroos! Now that will look slick on your wrist.

Our very own Ella Sagnol RNZYS Communications & Major Projects will be on board V5 for the race and is one that hopes to round in daylight. Ella will be updating the RNZYS socials so make sure you tune in to follow what’s happening!

Lori Tyrrell and Ken Ormandy - Perfect Storm

Best Dressed Team of Elliphunk rocking their 1995 themed uniform

36 Degrees Brokers General Manager Jono Bakker keeping crews cool with ‘Nice Blocks’ supplied by Little Island Icecreamery at the finish of the 36 Degrees Brokers Kawau Island Race

The ultimate comeback –36 Degrees Brokers Squadron Weekend a ‘stunner’ for members and crew

Nice Blocks, Lighthouse coffee, cocktails, sunshine, and light breezes had us partying like it was 1995 at this year’s Squadron Weekend.

Thanks to 36 Degrees Brokers, 2024 saw the return of the iconic Squadron Weekend after the pandemic and a summer of storms kept the event from Kawau’s shores for the past two years.

The weekend kicked off on Friday at 4pm with the rally or cruise to Kawau and then at 6pm the Night Race to Kawau began where over 35 crews started at Westhaven on a 26 nautical mile stretch to the finish at Motuketekete Island. For most it was a beautiful light breeze sail with starlit sky to help guide the way, while others at the tail end struggled to finish with mirror like conditions once the tide had turned. No issues for Mr Kite II though, finishing 2nd on Line and 1st on Handicap.

With a tired but excited fleet finishing the Friday night race from Auckland to Kawau at around 0100hrs Saturday. ‘Lighthouse at Lidgard’

was a hit on Saturday morning as sleep deprived crew sprung up for coffee and prepared for an awesome day of sailing and socialising ahead. Barista made coffee wasn’t the only luxury we bought over from the mainland this year, delicious cocktails, and Nice Blocks from Little Island Icecreamery were an island delicacy and enjoyed by crews.

By 1pm Saturday the weather was providing us a ‘stunner’ of a weekend, though the wind gods could have made the breeze a touch stronger. Saturday’s Round Kawau Race kicked off and, whilst slow, was a picture perfect day.

30 Boats took part with Mr Kite II leading the pack once again. The winner of the weekend was Nathan and Gillian Williams team on Mr Kite II who had a total corrected time of 04:16:45, winning the deed to Martello Rock.

We spoke to past Commodore and RNZYS Member Steve Mair about the weekend.

The crew of Zephryus dressed in 1995 theme as the iconic characters of Toy Story

“It’s a brilliant weekend when the weather plays ball, and it certainly did this year. A wee bit more wind would have made it a 10 out of 10 weekend but it’s as much about the off-water stuff which makes it so much fun”.

Steve said he enjoyed getting the full Clockwork crew out to Kawau together and all the excellent events the weekend had to offer them.

“Having been coming to Squadron Weekend for over 20 years it gives us a chance to overnight on the boat as a full crew…I’m not sure what’s the most fun, the night race, the Saturday race, the pre-party, party, or the post-party party. I do know the trip home can be a wee bit tough for some though” said Mair.

First-time event attendee and keen sailor, Rosy Herstell, sailed on Mustang Sally and said she loved the simplicity and inclusion of the event. “Squaddie weekend brings together the sailing community in a really inclusive way. This was my first squaddie weekend and I loved watching our community come together, old and young” she said.

“The event was seamless, and you really knew the squaddie team had your back. From delivering coffees (for some sore heads) and zipping around in the rib ensuring everyone got home safe. And of course, delivering those yummy ice blocks after Saturday’s race!

On the way home Mustang Sally stopped to support another squadron vessel (flying the squaddie flag) with engine troubles, and we towed them back toward Gulf Harbour” said Herstell.

Squadron Member and Sailor onboard Zephyrus, Catriona Stanton echoed sentiments shared by many over the weekend.

“Squadron weekend for the Zephyrus crew is a favourite in our sailing season, blending the perfect concoction of thrilling races and an epic party at Lidgard House. Personally, the night race holds a special place in my heart, kicking off at sunset and with the perfect conditions and arriving at Bon Accord just after dark.”

The party theme ‘Partying like it’s 1995’ had a mix of takes, whether it was iconic kid’s films, rocking red socks, or re-creating 1995 America’s Cup uniforms, it was great to see members leaning into the theme.

“Throwing ourselves wholeheartedly into the themed festivities is always a blast, sparking spirited debates in our group chat long before the weekend on our interpretation. This year, we ventured a bit off the beaten path with our choice: dressing up as beloved characters from the timeless classic, Toy Story (released in ‘95). But hey, why not inject a little whimsy and nostalgia into the mix?” said Stanton.

To top it off the fishing competition held across Friday and Saturday added to the weekend’s excitement. The Best Snapper was caught by Cameron Thorpe, the prize for Best Glory Photo or Video was won by Chris Field who saw a 3m Bronze Whaler, and the prize for Youngest Angler went to Alex Campbell.

2024’s Squadron weekend was a huge success. We hope all attendees have long recovered and (we’re sure) you are already preparing to attend next year’s incredible full weekend event.

Photography by Suellen Hurling

Frans De Court and his crew aboard Expatria at the start of the 36 Degrees Brokers Commodore’s Cup Night Race to Kawau

Elena Stan and Ella Sagnol aboard Mustang Sally at the start of the 36 Degrees Brokers Commodore’s Cup Night Race to Kawau

SheSails NZ aims to grow a vibrant female sailing community in Aotearoa by promoting value and visibility and providing role models who inspire women to seize opportunities in every facet of our sport.

Annual Corporate Regatta and Charity Auction benefits youth sailing initiatives

On March 7, 2024, Waitematā Harbour came to life as the Squadron played host to attendees of our annual Corporate Regatta and Charity Auction.

The event, which is always eagerly anticipated, brought together a mix of business leaders, sailing enthusiasts, and community members, all taking a day off work and coming together in support of our Club and youth sailing initiatives.

The day kicked off with registration and briefing, with attendees mingling over a beverage and delicious platter. With formalities taken care of, participants eagerly boarded member-owned yachts, ready to embark on a day of sailing and friendly on-water rivalry.

With 31 boats hosting corporate guests, the harbour quickly became a vibrant scene - Participants, whether seasoned sailors or first-time ocean-goers, were excited for the opportunity to come together on the water. The conditions on the day played ball, enabling even those new to the sport to get some hands on experience and better understand the thrill of sailing in Auckland.

As the yachts docked back at the Westhaven Marina, beverages flowed and regatta goers enjoyed incredible food, before their attention turned to the evening’s main event: the Charity Auction. Over 300 attendees gathered to bid on an array of items generously donated by corporate partners and members. From exclusive experiences like trips to witness the 37th Americas Cup in Barcelona, to coveted yachting memorabilia and luxury goods, the auction line up had something for everyone.

Radio personality and fellow yachtie Mel Homer was the evenings MC and Tony Loughran from Barfoot and Thompson played a crucial role as

Auctioneer. Both were fantastic at holding the excited crowd’s attention and bids on the live auction gained momentum throughout the evening. As bidders looked to one-up each other, prices lifted and incredible money-can’t-usually-buy auction items went under the hammer, all with the shared goal of raising funds for youth sailing initiatives at RNZYS. The combination of the silent auction which had been running for two weeks prior, and the live auction items meant we very nearly reached our goal of $100,000 raised on the evening - a wonderful result for the Club.

The night continued in electric fashion with more drinks flowing, music and new sailing enthusiasts sharing their experiences with us.

The Regatta and Auction was a huge success for RNZYS and would not have been possible without the support of our valued corporate partners, guests, and members who generously contributed their time, resources, and enthusiasm to the cause. A special thanks to all our members who volunteered their boats for a great day on the water, and those who helped with the delivery of this huge event, enabling us to raise almost $100,000 - we couldn’t have done it without you and look forward to having you back again next year!

If you’d like to make further donations to our youth initiatives, please contact RNZYS General Manager Sarah Wiblin on SWiblin@rnzys.org.nz.

Photography by Suellen Hurling

HELLY HANSEN

THREE KINGS RACE

11th April

MOTHER'S DAY BRUNCH

Sunday 12th May

PLAN YOUR AUTUMN & WINTER WITH US ON & OFF THE WATER

36 DEGREES BROKERS GOLF DAY

11th April

QUIZ NIGHTS

AUCKLAND REGATTA

15th & 16th June

Starts 15th May

HAVANA CLUB RUM RACE

Most Fridays

ETNZ MEMBERS BREAKFAST

15th May

MID WINTER X-MAS LUNCH

25th June

NORTH SAILS WINTER SERIES

Starts Saturday 11th May

ANNUAL PRIZEGIVING

18th May

MATARIKI RACE

27th June

Ocean Women’s Summit –A celebration of women who love the water

Everyone loves a long mid-week lunch, so when we announced the Ocean Women’s Summit, with five courses, five cocktails, and five speakers, the tickets practically ran out the door with women lining up to confirm their place for the inaugural event.

While some might think it was the cocktails that lured the ladies in, it was actually the speakers – with a knowledgeable, entertaining, and inspiring line up of women, all who excel in their chosen fields through hard work, determination, and a never give up attitude, we knew we were in for a treat.

RNZYS welcomed Keryn McMaster, Megan Thomson, Kelly Hartzell, Kate Montgomery and Hon Nikki Kay, with host Mel Homer keeping everyone entertained between courses.

As the delicacies were carefully placed in front of each attendee, and the cocktail ice clinked in glasses, the lunch kicked off with Mel making some jokes “that only women would understand,” setting the tone for the afternoon ahead.

As the courses rolled out, and new friends were made, the room fell silent as each speaker told their unique stories. That silence and intrigue was interrupted with eruptions of laughter, especially when Keryn asked for dating advice!

No one speaker stood out, as each of them were all inspiring in their own way – through life experiences, overcoming challenges, and making it to the top in their respective fields.

The inaugural Ocean Women’s Summit was a hit with the ladies –so much so that a second luncheon will be added to the rotation of member events in the future.

With our fresh look membership options, and making sailing more accessible to women, the current goal of the RNZYS is to increase membership and sailing participation to the wider community – but it is not just about getting on a race and bashing around a racecourse. By making the RNZYS inclusive, we open a world of opportunities for the next generation of members, and the future success of the Squadron as a whole.

Ocean Women’s Summit

Photography by Suellen Hurling

Hayley Gillespie and Claudia Pierce

More about the Ocean Women’s Summit Speakers

Keryn McMaster

Keryn is an accomplished offshore sailor having sailed around the world twice; first on EF Education in 1997-98 and then on Amer Sports 2 in the Volvo Ocean Race 2001-02. Keryn has also competed in three SydneyHobart races completing this first at just 18 years old. Keryn gave insights into her role with PredictWind, and how she’s helping fellow sailors achieve their sailing dreams and goals through powerful and accurate weather insights.

Megan Thomson

A proud RNZYS Member, Megan made history last year as the first female to stand atop the podium at the World Match Racing Tour Circuit. Megan’s passion and drive for success saw her excel and rise through the ranks of both women’s and open Match Racing scenes.

Kelly Hartzell

Kelly is a talented Mechatronics Engineer who joined Emirates Team New Zealand in 2022. Kelly provided an interesting insight into the development of the America’s Cup simulator and how the youth and women’s teams are using this to train ahead of the very first Youth and Puig Women’s Americas Cup.

Kate Montgomery

Part of the sailing world for most of her life, Kate Montgomery is a qualified Personal Trainer, Mobility Coach and Yoga and Meditation Teacher with over 20 years of practice under her belt. She also lives with chronic illness which brings unique challenges to her everyday life. Kate told her story of how she found the courage to accept her body and improve her physical and mental health through movement. While Kate is the daughter of well-known sailing broadcaster PJ, she has her own story of self-love and acceptance that has inspired countless women to begin to love and accept their bodies and look after their physical and mental wellbeing.

Hon Nikki Kaye

The former NZ Member of Parliament for Auckland Central & former Deputy Leader of the New Zealand National Party, Nikki held many portfolios, including serving as Minister of ACC, Civil Defense, Youth, Food Safety and Education. Her current role as a Director of AUT Ventures sees her delivering independent consultancy for Education Technology initiatives in New Zealand, United States, and other countries. Recently, Nikki has cofounded Blue Nature Aotearoa Trust with Dr Nigel Bradly which brings together educators, technology, and marine science specialists to work with school students to deliver blue nature social impact projects.

Keryn McMaster

Megan Thomson, Kelly Hartzell and Kate Montgomery

Hon Nikki Kaye and Keryn McMaster

RNZYS PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME

Performance Programme sailor Josh Hyde clinches back-to-back victories, establishes legacy among sailing greats.

Josh Hyde and his formidable team, known as “Waitematā Racing” consisting of Jack Manning, Zach Fong, Cody Coughlan, and Luis Schneider, have kicked off the 2024 Youth Match Racing circuit with resounding back-to-back victories, cementing their status among the elite in the

Their journey began at the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron’s Hardy Cup from February 4th to 8th, 2024, where they showcased their dominance by sailing an impressive double round-robin, losing only one race. They went on to convincingly defeat Daniel Kemp of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club in the semi-finals and ultimately triumphed over Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s Chelsea Williams, losing only one race throughout the entire regatta. The victory at the Hardy Cup also earns Hyde a spot among only six other Kiwi skippers to claim this prestigious title in Sydney.

Returning to their home waters for the RNZYS’s Youth International Match Race Cup, Hyde once again faced off against Daniel Kemp and his formidable crew from RPAYC. Despite the strong competition, Waitematā

Racing emerged victorious, further solidifying their reputation as top contenders in the sailing circuit.

Reflecting on their strategy, Hyde emphasised the significance of simplicity and teamwork, underscoring their mantra of “keeping it simple and working together.”

The team’s achievement places them in an elite category, joining just five other sailors in the Youth International Match Racing Cup’s 34-year history who have clinched consecutive victories. Their performance solidifying their reputation as formidable competitors in the world of sailing, alongside renowned names such as Josh Junior, Phil Robertson, Graeme Sutherland, and Jimmy Spithill.

Thrilled with the outcome of the Regatta, Hyde highlighted the team’s rigorous preparation and unwavering determination. Looking ahead, he revealed the team’s aspirations to participate in numerous regattas, with the aim of positioning themselves for success in the upcoming year, including open and match race world tour events.

Hyde and his “Waitemata Racing” team stand as an example of excellence and perseverance in the world of sailing, inspiring future generations of sailors to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination and passion.

Waitemata Racing celebrating their win

Great to see the Elliott 7’s in their first official regatta

Youth International Match Racing Cup

Photos by Suellen Hurling

Ethan Fong - RNZYS

Daniel KempRoyal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Xavier McLachlanRoyal Sydney Yacht Squadron

Waitemata Racing with the Youth International Cup

Ella Arnold and her YTG “Yeah the Girls” racing team

RSYS Hardy Cup –Celebrating Mastercard YTP and PP success

Photos by Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, Sydney International Match Racing Regatta

Waitemata Racing celebrating their win, with a swim!

Sam Scott with his full YTP team of Hayden Smith, Hugo McMullen, Luca Smith, Maddie Rist.

Our Mastercard YTP & PP teams with coach Zak Merton

Rory Simms with his full YTP team of Alissa Marshall, Kelly Su, Ethan Fong & Austin Candlish

Josh Hyde and his Waitemata Racing crew of Cody Coughlan, Mason Mulcahy, Nick Drummond and Zach Fong

Say ‘Hello’ to our new membership categories and member software!

For many of our members, club racing and cruising is what drives us, but we know that ‘getting on the water’ is only part of what makes being a member of this internationally recognised and worldleading club great.

Following the Special General Meeting held on 4 December, with majority in favour of our RNZYS proposed membership category changes, we are thrilled to offer you new membership categories designed to better meet your needs while influencing further growth of the clubs’ community.

We know you’ll enjoy the benefits of these new categories, which will allow new and existing members to enjoy the club based on their age, stage, and desires to be involved in both on and off water activities.

Some of our exciting category developments are as follows:

• We have revised the Family Membership fee, making the club more affordable and amplifying voting rights

• Designed a more affordable staged approach to Full Member fees up to age 40, allowing greater access and

voting rights for younger members

• Created a Squadron Member category for anyone regularly crewing on boats

• And an exciting new Clubhouse Member category for those wanting to enjoy the benefits of our club - including our local communitywithout participating in on water events.

All members can enjoy their existing membership category until the time of renewal, and then you’re welcome to discuss the best category moving forward with our team. If you’d prefer to remain in your existing membership category, we are happy to enable this, however we think you’ll see benefits in switching over.

While we’re here, did you know that with just a few clicks you can update your personal information, manage your membership preferences, pay your membership, and stay connected with the latest news and events hosted by the club?!

Hello Club, our new membership management software, is already helping to streamline operations and improve your

experience with the club. If you haven’t already, connect to RNZYS through Hello Club by completing your member account set up.

Thanks to all members who have connected through Hello Club!

If you’d like to discuss your membership with us, or have any questions, please contact the Membership team, phone 09 360 6800 or email membership@rnzys.org.nz

Member Bob Still took some time at the recent Corporate Regatta to show us how easy Hello Cub is to use.

RNZYS Mastercard

YTP graduates continue the legacy

The 2023 match racing season concluded with a remarkable performance at the World Match Racing Tour Final in Shenzhen, China, showcasing the talent of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) Youth Training Programme (YTP) graduates. Over half of the podium was graced by these sailors, underscoring the programme’s impact on the world stage.

RNZYS’ Megan Thomson and her “2.0 Racing” shone in the spotlight as they secured a third-place finish, rounding out the podium after five days of racing in various conditions. On board with Thomson were Nicholas Heiner, Leonard Takahashi and Niall Malone. A third-place finish in a world championship regatta is always impressive, but Thomson made World Match Racing Tour history as the first female skipper to make it to the quarter-finals in a World Match Racing Tour event.

“It didn’t really sink in until after it all happened. When we made the quarter-finals, Dave Sweete came up and hugged me and said, ‘I don’t think you realise how big this is for the sport’. I laughed it off at the time, but I think it really hit home at the prize-giving when I started talking to all of the local women sailors,” said Thomson.

Thomson, Takahashi, and Malone are graduates of the RNZYS YTP, which since 1986, has developed a reputation for producing talented sailors who excel globally across the sport of sailing. Thomson recalls how the programme helped develop her as a sailor, “YTP allowed me to learn about teamwork and how to work in a dynamic environment. Other sports I’ve competed in were as an individual, but being a part of the YTP taught me about different leadership styles.”

After graduating from the YTP, Thomson moved into the RNZYS Performance Programme, which focuses on providing pathways for teams with the qualities to be amongst the world’s finest sailors. “The Performance Programme then gave me the opportunity to take what I had learnt in YTP about working in various teams and form my own,” Thomson says.

It wasn’t just “2.0 Racing” that had RNZYS YTP graduates on the podium. Gavin Brady’s “True Blue Racing” finished second overall with crew Nick Blackman, Tom Powrie, and Dave Sweete, all of whom are programme graduates. Nick Egnot-Johnson’s “KNOTS Racing” was also a crew made up entirely of YTP graduates, including Sam Barnett, Bradley McLaughlin, and Zak Merton, who is now the programme’s head coach.

Reminiscing about the opportunities provided to him, Egnot-Johnson said, “Back in 2018, I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to go through the RNZYS Performance Programme. Back then, the programme was focusing on sailing their two foiling Nacra 17’s with the goal of developing sailors towards the future of the sport. It was here that I was also introduced to match racing. The RNZYS, with its fleet of ten Elliott 7’s, is the ultimate training ground for anyone wanting to get involved in match racing. We had amazing coaches such as Reuben Corbett, Guy Pilkington, Laurie Jury and Graeme Sutherland, who got everyone out on the water constantly match-racing against each other,

Photography by Ian Roman, World Match Racing Tour

Megan Thomson in Shenzhen, China, signing autographs for the local Youth Sailors

which provided the best learning environment. This programme is pretty much unrivalled throughout the world! The YTP and the PP not only give you the skills to then progress to racing onto bigger boats locally and internationally but also the connections that help you make the jump into becoming a world-class sailor.”

Since its inception in 1986, the RNZYS YTP has been at the forefront of nurturing world-class sailing talent. The future looks bright for YTP, with the recent victory of Josh Hyde, Jack Manning, Zach Fong, Cody Coughlan, and Luis Schneider at the Hardy Cup in Sydney and the Youth International Match Racing Cup hosted at home, further evidencing the programme’s success in developing competitive sailors.

The achievements of the RNZYS YTP graduates at the World Match Racing Tour Final and beyond are a testament to the programme’s excellence and its commitment to shaping the future of sailing. With

ongoing support and dedication, the YTP is set to continue its legacy of success on the international stage. Or as Thomson says, “A number of sailors don’t recognise match racing as a pathway in the sport so I think exposure to that is important. I hope that we’re able to make it more accessible than it has been, and I’m really excited to see where the next generation can take the sport.”

Nicholas Heiner, Megan Thomson, Niall Malone and Leonard Takahashi.

Exceptional global experiences on offer for RNZYS members

Settle into comfortable accommodation in the heart of London at the Royal Thames Yacht Club, marvel at breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour from the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, or enjoy the camaraderie found at the Royal Cape Yacht Club in Cape Town.

With over 50 reciprocal Clubs in 19 countries, RNZYS members are making the most of their membership benefits across the world. Members can sail, stay, and enjoy friendly local hospitality while connecting with our global sailing community.

To showcase some of the brilliant opportunities available with reciprocal clubs, we spoke to Megan Thomson Skipper of Match Racing team 2.0 Racing who, as a frequent traveller, has visited nine of our reciprocal friends in Australia, USA, South Africa and here in New Zealand too.

“In my personal experiences at reciprocal clubs I have been welcomed in, invited to treat their club as my own and often encouraged

to go for a sail and join in on local club racing. Depending on the club, they all have different opportunities and facilities to offer. Many of the clubs have organised for our match racing team to be hosted by a club member while on tour last year, a massive thank you to St Francis Yacht Club, Annapolis Yacht Club and Long Beach Yacht Club for arranging this. Without the generosity of their members hosting us we wouldn’t be able to afford to compete on the tour and stay away from home for so many months of the year “ she said.

While Megan has thoroughly enjoyed all clubs’ hospitality, Long Beach Yacht Club has been her favourite to date. “Many of the club members there have taken me in as one of their own family members, inviting me into their homes and having me over for family dinners. I was fortunate enough to spend two months last year in Long Beach with my ‘California Family’.”

Another fan of the Long Beach Yacht Club is RNZYS member, Cindy Wiersma who coincidentally bumped into Megan while visiting.

“[We] thoroughly enjoyed our visit this month to the Long Beach Yacht Club in California. We stopped there for a swim in the pool and a bite to eat but then bumped into Megan Thomson who had just arrived the day before to compete in a few races with this club. Megan introduced us to the Rear Commodore, Lisa Meier, who she will be sailing with, and later we also had the opportunity to meet the Commodore, General Manager, and several others. Everyone was so friendly and hospitable. We spent some time with Lisa Meier in particular, and shared some drinks, stories, and laughs. What a wonderful afternoon it turned out to be.”

Another two RNZYS members visited the Waikiki Yacht Club in Hawaii just a few months ago.

“A simple email with our referral letter from RNZYS allowed us entry to the club where we were greeted warmly and encouraged to enjoy the pool, dining on the dock, and wonderful food and beverage options. To our surprise, within ten minutes of conversation over a Longboard Lager, we were offered a spot on legendary local Jim Maynard’s boat Wasabi for ‘Beer Can Racing’! We’ve now made a crew of Hawaiian friends, all who are excited to visit us in NZ for Rum Racing at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron” said member Nick Dawe.

When visiting global reciprocal clubs, you can expect to be welcomed with open arms, truly experiencing the culture and community of each club for a fraction of what it would cost to be a member. To enjoy your reciprocal club member benefits, simply email RNZYS with your travel dates and the club you’d like to visit to request a letter of introduction.

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Steve Callagher and Cindy Wiersma are pictured with Lisa Meier, Rear Commodore, and Blair Carty, Commodore (September, 2023)

Auckland Wooden Boat FestivalThe next big event for kiwi boating enthusiasts

The inaugural Wooden Boat Festival, part of Moana Auckland – New Zealand’s Ocean Festival, captivated the hearts of boat enthusiasts, tourists, families, and locals alike, drawing in over 160 boats on display and thousands of visitors from the 1st -3rd March. The festival aimed to tell the story of Auckland’s maritime history from the early days of settlement through to today.

With a backdrop of Auckland’s stunning harbour and positioned on Jellicoe Wharf, the festival showcased a mesmerising array of classic yachts, some dating back to the 1800s, meticulously preserved to maintain their historical integrity.

From elegant yachts to beautiful launches and work boats, all which have never been seen together in one place, the event offered a special opportunity for attendees to intimately engage with New Zealand’s boating heritage. A spectacular lineup of vessels graced the event, journeying from around the country. From tiny model yachts and hand-made wooden dinghies to Ranger the majestic 60-foot kauri hulled Tercel brothers design, the event catered to enthusiasts of all ages. With interactive

activities and attractions dotted around the surrounding wharf and Events Centre, there truly was something for everyone to enjoy.

The festival was organised in less than six months after its inception by members of the Tino Rawa Trust, Michelle Khan-Stevenson and Tony Stevenson, alongside many volunteers and members from the classic yacht community, and with the support of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, the New Zealand Maritime Museum and Eke Panuku alongside presenting sponsor Perpetual Guardian.

Inspired by the acclaimed Hobart Wooden Boat Festival, the two-yearly event promises to continue to foster a shared enthusiasm across the Tasman Sea between Auckland and Hobart. Despite some Auckland rain on closing day, the festival’s spirit remained undampened, with over 11,700 visitors revelling in maritime history over the three unforgettable days.

The attention gained by this new event marked it as a huge success, setting the stage for future iterations of the Wooden Boat Festival - Anticipation is already mounting for the next chapter in celebrating Auckland’s rich maritime heritage.

Auckland Wooden Boat Show Photography by Suellen Hurling

Rayglass Squadron Picnic

The blustery weather didn’t dampen the spirits of the many members who attended this year’s Rayglass Squadron Picnic, which proved to be a resounding success. Held on the Eastern side of Motuihe Island, RNZYS Members, families and friends enjoyed the afternoon on the grass and sand.

With attendees building sandcastles, using their towels as kites, and even a few swims from some of the youngest attendees, there was something for everyone, making for a great family day out.

The day saw the usual fun races on the beach, providing entertainment for participants of all ages. From running and sack races to relays, all diligently started by Commodore Andrew Aitken and his cannon!

RNZYS flag officers, Matt Cole - Chairman of the House, David Blakey - Rear Commodore, Gillian Williams - Vice Commodore and Andrew Aitken - Commodore

50 years of history revisited –the Ocean Globe Race stops in Auckland

The Ocean Globe Race (OGR), a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the iconic 1973 Whitbread Round the World Race, sailed into Auckland over the Christmas New Year period, marking the halfway point of this historic adventure race.

Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron was delighted to welcome sailors and supporters into our club during the stopover. A great time was had by all at both the welcome and farewell parties hosted by RNZYS. Race founder and organiser Don McIntyre spoke highly of their experience with the RNZYS remarking our exceptional hospitality and organisation.

On 14th January, twelve iconic yachts powered down Auckland Harbour with purpose as they vied for position on the start line of Leg 3 in 15-20 knot North Easterly. Four yachts arrived too early, dipping

the line in the final minute, while one forced gybe caused batten cars to break on L’Esprit d’équipe. The French Swan 53 Triana FR (66) clinched first place, mere seconds ahead of the Finnish yacht Galiana WithSecure FI (06) and Australian entrant Outlaw AU (28). A thrilling start to an around the world yacht race where mere seconds make little difference.

The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron served as the backdrop for this thrilling scene, reminiscent of the Whitbread’s first visit to Auckland back in 1977. Live Sail Die were on the water to capture the action along with a strong fleet of spectator yachts which followed the intrepid sailors to North Head, wishing them well on their journey across the Southern Ocean and on to Uruguay.

Photography by Suellen Hurling

Baptism by Fire for

our RNZYS Perfomance Programme members at the 75th

JJ Giltinan 18-Foot Skiff Championships

The “JJ’s” is considered the world championship of 18-Foot Skiff racing, and New Zealand has a long association with the class.

Back in the 1990’s, racing took place on the Waitematā Harbour as part of the televised Grand Prix Series. But the history for New Zealand dates back to 1938 when in the inaugural JJ’s regatta, New Zealand’s best performer was Irina, which finished in fifth place.

A year later, the JJ’s was raced in Auckland, and an M-Class named Manu claimed the first JJ’s win for the kiwis in 1939. But this win wasn’t without its controversy.

An estimated 25,000 spectators lined the shores to watch the racing unfold, with three teams from Australia, taking on a fleet of 21 in Auckland. The contest proved to be one of the most bitterly contested in the history of the championship. It was marred by several protests, the latter of which saw the defending champion and provisional 1939 winner, Taree (Bert Swinbourne), being disqualified. Gordon Chamberlain’s Manu was then declared the winner.

Swinbourne lodged an appeal against the decision, but that appeal wasn’t heard before the Australian’s returned back to the western island, and with them, the JJ’s trophy. Swinbourne didn’t agree with the ruling and refused to hand the trophy over to the Kiwis – and it remained hidden for four years.

After a lot of soul searching, Swinbourne later apologised for his actions, and returned the trophy to the League in Australia, and it was then handed over to New Zealand and presented to the owners of Manu.

New Zealand went on to win the JJ’s in 1950 (Komutu / Jack Logan), 1952 and 1954 (Intrigue / Peter Mander), 1960 (Surprise / Bern Skinner), 1972 (Smirnoff / Don Lidgard) and in 1974 (Travelodge New Zealand / RNZYS members, Terry McDell, Peter Brook & Kim McDell).

It would then be another 44 years before New Zealand would claim another JJ Giltinan 18 Foot Skiff Championship title. Honda Marine (David McDiarmid, Matt Steven and Brad Collins), did the three-peat, claiming back-to-back titles in 2018, 2019 and finally in 2020 just as the world was shutting down due to COVID-19. The final races of the 2020 edition of the JJ’s was raced on an almost empty Sydney Harbour, and while the Kiwi’s won, the JJ’s trophy remained locked in its cabinet with Honda Marine heading home as the champions to two weeks of isolation, instead of a raging party to celebrate their domination over the Australians.

Fast forward to 2022 and an opportunity came about for new blood to join the 18 Foot Skiff Fleet racing in Auckland.

Graham Catley, who is the sole owner of all the 18 Foot Skiffs in Auckland, put the call out through Live Sail Die looking for sailors who were keen to join a brand-new team.

RNZYS Performance Programme members Jack Frewin, Ollie Gilmour and Luc Gladwell answered the call, and after 10 hours of racing, jumped at the opportunity to have the boat they were assigned packed in the container and shipped to Sydney, along with two others, and take on the 75th edition of the JJ’s as complete newbies.

Jack Frewin, Ollie Gilmour, Luc Gladwell

Photography by Michael Chittenden

Baptism by fire is the best way to describe their initiation to the fleet.

The team soon learnt that 18-Foot Skiff racing is unlike anything they have ever attempted. Mix that in with another 26 18-Foot Skiffs, Sydney Harbour on water congestion, ferries, and courses longer than your grandmother knitting wool collection, and you’ve got all the ingredients for the chaos that is the JJ’s, and 18-Foot Skiff racing in general.

Jack took the helm of the skiff, with Ollie on main and Luc in the jump seat on the bow.

The guys knew going into the regatta that results weren’t the main goal, but rather to immerse themselves in the culture of 18’s racing and to get a better understanding of the program ahead of the 2025 event.

“With about 10 days of sailing experience in an 18-Foot Skiff, heading into the JJ’s the only goal of the regatta for us was to improve with each race,” said Jack.

“Going from a start line with four boats to 27 is a completely different world and we learnt that the hard way. Slowly but surely, we began working through our extensive list of work on’s and while the results may not show it, the way we were sailing and communicating as a team increased tremendously. We began to see some improvement in our overall placing, which was a huge morale booster!”

“The JJ Giltinan’s is unlike any other regatta I’ve done. The shear length

of the event and the wide range of conditions it throws at you makes it feel like you are on a roller coaster with countless twists and turns to test you in every way possible. Our biggest challenge came in Race 7 on the first downwind leg when we had to tack and had a big capsize, injuring Ollie in the process to the point where we had to retire from the race and take him to hospital. This was a huge setback for the team! Just as we had finally had a great start and were in the top 10 round the first mark it all came crashing down. Unfortunately for Ollie he was not able to rejoin Luc and I but we were able to find a replacement crew and finish off the regatta strong.”

Overall, it was great for me to finally get back into some proper skiff racing! I have missed this side of sailing, so it was great to reconnect with it and break from the usual match racing. Whilst this regatta was purely for development, I’m left leaving the event wanting more, I feel like it has reignited a side of me that I have lost touch with over the last few years. So, I am looking forward to getting back in the boat for some winter training.”

“I’d like to thank Graham [Catley] for the support and wisdom he offered us in our entire lead up and during the regatta. The knowledge he gave me on the boat set-up and local geographic tactics was invaluable. Finally, I would like to thank my crew Luc and Ollie. I threw those boys in the deep end and expected the world from them since day one. We have a long way to go till we are on par with the ASCC boys, but I’m filled with confidence looking forward,” said Jack.

Luc Gladwell, who was on the bow for the RNZYS team said, “It was a regatta with lots of learnings for us. Like one of the other Kiwi teams, only having been out a handful of times before the regatta was always going to result in a challenging time. However, we learnt a huge amount from so many consecutive days of racing. We picked up on a few Aussie techniques which improved our gybes. All round it was a fantastic opportunity that would not have been possible without Graham [Catley]. We are all very appreciative of his massive amount of support and encouragement.”

With the New Zealand fleet of 18-Foot Skiffs now on their way back to Auckland, the sailors will take a break from the high-octane sailing and resume their usual racing.

18-Skiffs don’t normally race during the winter months, but given the resurgence of the class, and the goal of heading back to Sydney for the 76th JJ’s, it won’t be a surprise if we see the fleet on the Waitemata Harbour ahead of the 2024/2025 summer sailing season.

Jack Frewin Ollie Gilmour Luc Gladwell

Photography by Suellen Hurling

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.

LAST PLACES 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

MEET YOUR TEAM

Increasing Acceleration –AC 37 Update

In just seven months’ time, the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona will be over, which brings heightened perspective on why each week seems to be ticking by at a constantly increasing acceleration and why the milestone deadlines seem to be pushing that much tighter.

Before long the team will be back in Barcelona making their final preparations to begin racing on August 22nd which will be the kick off to an action packed and relentless two months of sailing.

Before then, one of the most significant events of any campaign is just weeks away here in Auckland- the launch and commissioning of Emirates Team New Zealand’s race boat.

A short period of sea trialling is planned to evaluate and test the hundreds of different onboard systems required to sail the boat, currently referred to as ‘Boat 3’ and the boat the team hopes to use to defend the America’s Cup. The boat will again be christened with a new name in conjunction with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei before a short period of sailing on the Waitematā Harbour.

However, it won’t be just us that the sailing world will be watching, five of the six competing teams are expected to launch during the month of April which will give a fascinating

insight into the design paths that each team has taken. Who has the most extreme hull shape, foil designs and aero package above deck? All pieces of a puzzle that won’t be complete until one team reaches seven points in the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup Match.

“Things have really geared up significantly here at Emirates Team New Zealand as we get closer and closer to launch. We have had 50 boat builders working flat out over the past few months at our North Shore build facility on the new boat which really does look like a piece of art.” said Emirates Team New Zealand COO Kevin Shoebridge.

“Having been over there a number of times recently, one of the really pleasing things is to see how many young new boat builders

have come through the build program being trained up by some of our most experienced boat builders, and that will now be qualified to continue to contribute to the wider marine industry for years to come.”

Back city side, the Emirates Team New Zealand base on Wynyard Point has been a hive of activity lately as both the Emirates Team New Zealand Women’s and Youth teams have been integrating with the team and getting valuable simulator and game time ahead of taking control of the AC40 for their on-water training now Te Kakahi is back.

This will also allow for a phase of two boat training for the team to hone match race plays and starting strategy before stepping back into the full size AC75 for its brief commissioning period.

The logistical operations are one part of an America’s Cup campaign that are critical. Already containers are heading North to Barcelona, with the first team members back on the ground getting the Barcelona base operational again ready for the full team migration in a few months.

It’s a big year ahead, and every day counts.

Already in Barcelona?

PURCHASE OUR OFFICIAL “FUNCTIONS ONLY” OPTION

RNZYS Official Welcome Dinner – Maritime Museum

RNZYS Exclusive Cocktail Evening – Real Club Nautico Barcelona

RNZYS “Official Bar” access on race days

One day AC37 “off water’ hospitality

Barcelona City Sights, including Sagrada Familia

Full day guided tour to either Montserrat or Sitges, both with Torres Vineyard wine and food event

Option to purchase option Tapas and/or Park Guell tours.

Priced from NZ$2,250 per person

LAST PLACES 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

New America’s Cup supporters gear available

In store or online at rnzys.org.nz/shop

Above - Gillian Williams, RNZYS Vice Commodore Left - Grant Dalton, CEO of Emirates Team New Zealand

Sarah Marsh launching Boat 2Watts and Hughs

New fleet of Elliott 7’s

In February the RNZYS was gifted, by Emirates Team New Zealand, a brand new fleet of Elliott 7’s to support the Mastercard Youth Training programme and the wider programmes RNZYS offers.

The existing fleet of Elliott 7’s was also sold to Buckland’s Beach Yacht Club – meaning a total of 20 Elliott 7’s will now be based in Auckland.

The Mastercard Youth Training Progarmme has successfully created world class athletes, including some who are now part of Emirates Team New Zealand. Now, with the brand-

new fleet of Elliott 7s having arrived the next generation of elite athletes will carve their yachting future.

Grant Dalton, CEO of Emirates Team New Zealand announced to RNZYS members that the new fleet will once again deliver opportunities to young sailors keen to embark on a world of professional sailing for many years to come.

“We are especially proud and excited about the launch of the new fleet of Elliot 7’s,” explained Grant Dalton.

“As an organisation, our core objective is always firmly focused on one thing - winning the America’s Cup for New Zealand. However, it is always vitally important to continue looking beyond that objective to the future and ensuring the pipeline of top level Kiwi sailing talent is full. So, investing in the new fleet is an investment in New Zealand’s future sailing talent through the world class RNZYS Youth Training Programme.”

Dalton continued by saying “This is the kind of legacy that we are determined to leave to the people of Auckland, and New Zealand. Having more one-design match racing boats means greater opportunities for everyone.”

Dalton also announced that Emirates Team New Zealand will donate $500,000 to the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron International Sailing Fund. This contribution will ensure world leading sailing opportunities on the international stage are available for our membership moving forward.

Gillian Williams,Vice Commodore and Chair of Sailing, commented saying “This incredible donation by the team further reinforces their commitment to ensuring the success of our programmes and ensures our sailors can compete on the world stage... we are incredibly grateful to Grant and the team”.

Photography by Suellen Hurling

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Revolution Impacting Data

Centres

This article is an introduction to the Data Centre (DC) sector, and addresses some of the structural benefits the industry is receiving from generative AI.

New AI technologies have been a key part of the broader investment narrative, driving strength in the US and wider share markets over the past 12 months. AI is speculated to be the next material technological step-change driving human productivity: changing the way we work, communicate, and problem-solve.

The “Magnificent Seven” (Apple, Amazon, Alphabet, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia and Tesla) are considered key beneficiaries as they train generative AI programs to enhance their existing businesses, or move into new business lines.

However, it won’t be the “Magnificent Seven” alone which benefit from AI. In the real assets sector, the standout companies set to benefit from the AI structural tailwinds are the operators of Data Centres (DCs).

DCs own or lease land on which they build Data Centre warehouses, which they then lease to large wholesale tenants (hyperscalers: predominantly large cloud hosts such as Azure, AWS and Google) or to numerous smaller retail tenants.

The DCs provide storage, power, cooling and cross connection cabling, while tenants provide their own equipment. Considerations, in terms of location, include access to power (DCs consume 2% of global electricity currently, potentially increasing to 4% by 2030), and proximity to populations / subsea cable landings (to reduce latency).

In New Zealand, over 200 MW of data centre capacity is expected to come online in the medium term, driven largely by demand from Cloud providers. This presents opportunities for data centre investors (Infratil, Spark, etc.) but also challenges for the electricity grid, given the large electricity demands of these facilities. Typically, the cloud providers will look to sign long-term purchase power agreements over renewables with electricity utilities and renewables developers.

Tailwinds for the industry include the digital revolution (global internet data demand is up 60 times compared to 2010), cloud computing (with hyperscalers renting space from the DC players as well as owning their own) and from AI.

These tailwinds are benefiting DCs in the form of a strong rental

market (digital realty has seen market rentals increase nearly 70% over the past 12 months) and development opportunities (seeing circa 15% cash yields).

Currently, generative AI training is taking place in DCs in more remote locations, whereas customer-facing applications are expected to drive demand for DCs closer to populations and fibre connections.

AI is still in the early stages but is already driving incremental demand for DC space. Notably, AI has about 10 times the power intensity of conventional computing, and power access is a constraining factor for DCs – so this is driving the development of new DC facilities, and elevated rents / development margins.

The large stock-exchange listed Data Centres are Equinix and Digital Realty in the US, while in Australia / NZ we have Infratil, Macquarie Techno, NextDC and, increasingly, Goodman Group investing in data centres. Milford has investments in several of these names.

These companies’ share prices have performed strongly in recent times on the positive themes discussed. The investment equation from here requires balancing a strong business outlook with these now higher valuations.

You get a driven team with financial expertise who actively manage your investment. You also get people who invest their own money in the same funds as their clients, so you know they are motivated to see you do well because they’re on the journey with you. So, whether you are an individual, family trust, charity or institution with more than $500,000 to invest and are looking for a comprehensive strategy, we’re here to help you expertly navigate the world of investing. Access advice from a Milford Private Wealth Financial Adviser, financial modelling of your goals and ongoing management of a structured portfolio of Milford Funds, in line with your risk appetite. To learn more about the Milford Private Wealth Service contact:

FOILING the future.

For someone who has often praised the development of foiling, it is a little bizarre that until last week I had never sailed on a foiling boat.

I’ve tow foiled behind boats or with a wing but never on an actual boat. So anticipation built when I was fortunate enough to get invited along as a passenger on the GC32 “Frank Racing” for the RNZYS PIC Insurance Brokers Wednesday Night Summer Series. When we accelerated out of the water for the first time, it was a mix of exhilarating and nerve-wracking, but mostly the former. In some ways it is a completely different sport. We raced off in our race at more than twice the speed of anyone else. We had one slight nose dive where I was pushed back by the impact of the water, but that just left with me a great big smile and an appreciation for wearing the full body wetsuit. I’m not sure how many Wednesday Nights I’ve done at the Club, but this was probably the most fun I’ve had.

Now, I can understand the rationale behind people who are upset at the rapid pace with which the top end of the sport is converting to foiling. But it’s happening and like most developments, it’s not going back - even if there will still be space for traditional classes. The America’s Cup is well and truly there, SailGP has a huge audience, and the upcoming Olympics will have two foiling classes. Beyond that, foiling has completely changed sailing for the younger generation. It’s not quite all they want to do but it’s not too far from it. And fair enough, why wouldn’t you want to go faster and add an extra dimension to the sport? It reminds me of some of the chats about snowboarding from skiers, but ultimately it pushed ski design to new areas and that’s been great for anyone who prefers powder skiing over scratching ice. I’m told too that this attitude

was once directed at windsurfing, which at one time the national body didn’t even consider to be part of the sport. However, the pole dancers have been responsible for seven of the 18 Olympic sailing medals - not bad for a sport that only debuted at the Olympics in 1984 for men and in 1992 for women.

Whenever I see people foiling for the first time, the reaction is always an enthusiastic one. Once you fly for the first time, it is a massive rush. It has to be experienced and it has to be chased. When you break surface tension and all of a sudden don’t have a boat or board in the water and you’re floating (wobbling usually too) and free. An accurate comparator is difficult, one that I have settled on is it’s akin to skiing on ice and suddenly dropping into chest deep powder. Your weight shifts, the sound changes, and a smile breaks out. Heck, I’m not even particularly adept at either of those but I know that I like them and need more of it. But, this is the art and beauty of entering the Flow State. And you don’t get into a sport because of the stats, you get into a sport because of how it makes you feel. If this is a way for more people to experience joy and grow the sport, why the heck not?

Photo by Suellen Hurling

Cans for Kai

Recycle your used cans to support LegaSea’s Kai Ika Project

Have you noticed our new can cages at various bin locations around the club?

At The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, we are passionate about minimising our impact on the environment and supporting local organisations that do good for our wider community. So, it was a no-brainer to help our friends at LegaSea to fundraise for their Kai Ika Project by adopting ‘Cans for Kai’.

The Kai Ika Project was established to help share otherwise discarded fish heads and frames with communities who revere these food sources. Typically, only one third of the fish we catch is consumed. After filleting, the remainder (the heads and frames) is often wasted. The Kai Ika Project tackles this issue by collecting and distributing this revered food source to communities who value it. Since 2016, over 300,000 kg of kaimona has been collected and distributed.

All this amazing work comes at a cost, and as demand for fish heads and frames increases, so does the Kai Ika Project’s distribution costs. Recognising this, the generous team at Phoenix Metalman saw an opportunity to help, and together with the Kai Ika Project, created ‘Cans for Kai’.

Cans for Kai converts your unwanted empties into koha (donation) to help fund the Kai Ika Project - it’s as easy as dropping your aluminium drink cans into the specially marked Cans for Kai bins. Phoenix Metalman then recycles your cans into new products and donates all proceeds to The Kai Ika Project. It’s a win for all!

We encourage you to avoid the hassle of broken glass on boats and take cans out on your adventures instead - the RNZYS Bottle store has a great range of a variety of beverages available in cans!

When you arrive back at the marina after a day out, you can easily dispose of your cans in their ‘Cans for Kai’ bins located in the rubbish areas near all piers at Westhaven Marina, and other Auckland Marinas.

A small effort can make a big difference – and we believe this is a great initiative to support!

Windsurfers

‘The reunion of our lives’ Windsurfing celebrates 50 years at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

On March 16, over 300 attendees were present at the 50 Years of Windsurfing celebration as the evenings MC, Andrew Mitchell, welcomed lovers of the sport to the ‘reunion of our lives’.

The event was hosted by Windfoil New Zealand, a group just five years old but playing for the future. Its purpose, to acknowledge the commitment and passion of those within the windsurfing community, who drove innovation to cut new pathways that continue to present New Zealand as a leader in the marine industry and sailing performance space - It was as much about celebrating the past, present and future of the sport as it was about reconnecting with old friends to celebrate the many achievements of so many Kiwi windsurfers, industry innovators, and craftsmen.

Enthusiasts of the sport from across the world and New Zealand gathered to take a trip down memory lane, celebrating a passion which has spanned generations. Guests heard legendary stories from wave riders Biggie Smithers and Scott Fenton and windsurf legends like Grant Beck, Susie Gibbs, Bruce and Barbara Kendall and many more before being journeying to the present and the future of the sport. The celebration was also a launch of Bruce Trotter’s outstanding chronicle of New Zealand windsurfing In the Footstraps of Giants. A book all event goers and fans of the sport are encouraged to pick up.

Barbara Kendall attended alongside her daughter, seventeen-year-old Aimee Brightwho is also one of New Zealand’s top young windfoilers- and her mum, Peggy Kendall. Exhilarated to be among friends, family and legends of the sport Barbara told us how she was revelling in the spirit of the evening. “It was amazing to come here tonight and have so many memories from all the years that we windsurfed! I couldn’t walk more than 20 meters- it took me an hour to get across the room because there were so many people to talk to. It was incredible to meet with all these pioneers of the sport and friends” she said. “Even I didn’t know all of the history, I was a very young girl when I came along. To see those who came before, the first boards that were imported and the first guys that went off to Australia to compete – it was really interesting to me that first part of the evening” said Kendall.

Plenty has changed for the sport over the years, but the popular sailing class remains as committed to innovation today as it was in 1974. And, looking to the future, the crowds welcomed young Olympians, set to compete in Paris from 28th July – 2nd August this year, to the stage.

Josh Armit and Veerle ten Have will represent New Zealand in the new discipline of iQFOIL (windfoiling) and will reach speeds of up to 50kph as they compete off the coast of Marseille, where the Olympic sailing competition will be

held. The pair took part in a Q&A where they shared stories of their successes and journey to Paris. Veerle ten Have is one of New Zealand’s brightest young talents, referred to as a thrill-seeker and rockstar of NZ sailing and is competing 16 years after Barbara Kendall. Barabara’s message for young Olympians heading over to Paris included hints to the fun you can have while competing and the amazing community of Windsurfers across the globe.

“I think that we’ve showed them tonight that first onto the dancefloor and last off the dancefloor wins! And actually, the French girls who I competed with in Barcelona – that was their motto. There were these two sisters who said our aim is to be the first on the dancefloor, and the first on the water.” said Kendall.

The evening ended with huge applause as the event MC encouraged the community to keep their passion for windsurfing, in its many forms, alive.

“Let’s keep riding for another 50 years everyone… we love [riding boards] because they challenge us, they’re fast and free and slightly antiestablishment. Re-live those same amazing feelings and camaraderie that you experienced all those years ago. It’s great for our minds, great for our bodies and well stay young at heart for ever.”

Exhibition Race prior to 50 year celebration

Thomas Crook and Eli Liefting

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Lets go cruising Vanuatu

Story by Aj Reid

As anyone who has sailed about in the South Pacific will attest, the secret is not necessarily in the name. Perhaps when Señor Magellan decided that it had a peaceful vibe either he, or the ocean was having a calm day. So for this year’s annual pilgrimage up to the warmth and clear waters of the various South Pacific Islands, all eyes in Opua were, as ever, on the routings. It is perhaps a maxim that with modern forecasting we have all become obsessed with finding a perfect window, and it perhaps should also be a maxim that such a thing is non-existent.

We left Opua after a grotty cold week of heavy rain and had fairly rough seas in following winds for the first few days, then headed into both Minerva reefs for a bit of exploration and fishing. Suffice to say, if you haven’t been there, these “middle-of-nowhere” anchorages are a must see. And if you have been, you will know what we mean. Otherworldly.

After 4 days at Minerva, we set sail for

a sunny and easy ride to Fiji, clearing in at the ever-welcoming Vuda Marina after two days of soft sailing and even catching some fish, although they were lost to poor gear preparation. Sailors we may be, but fishos we are not.

Having cruised extensively in western Fiji over the last 20 odd years, we were keen to head to the east for a bit, then strike out west for Vanuatu. Like Minerva, if you haven’t made it to Taveuni, Qamea or the Bay of Islands in the Lau Group, they are all, in different ways, utterly memorable. We were fortunate to find reasonable windows between strong SE trades to make some eastern gains but the 2023 season will certainly go down as a windy one, By October, it was time to head West. The master plan had always been to sail from Vanuatu up to Thursday Island at the top of Australia and then across to somewhere in Indonesia. After an absurdly pleasant downwind

slide from Fiji to Port Vila we cleared in, looked at each-other and decided on the spot to stick around for bit. We are far from the first to be charmed by Vanuatu, a volcanic archipelago of around 80 islands spread across 800 nm which boasts as many as 145 languages. Most of the locals, numbering around 300,000, speak about five, being English (prevalent), French (mostly older people), their village language, their spouse’s village language and finally Bislama. The latter may be one of the most pragmatic and practical languages on the planet. What better word could exist for “anus” than “asol”, or “yumitu” for “we”? If you are looking for the best of something, ask for “Nambawan”, and if you by chance have eaten something bad, you will likely experience “Sitsitwota”. And you don’t breastfeed in Vanuatu, you “Givem Titi”. Phonetic and charming, Bislama just works.

Port Vila, the capital, is dusty, potholed, hot, and slightly chaotic but in slow motion. For

cruisers, the local Yachting World marina offers stern to mooring next to one of the best restaurant/cafes in town, or mooring balls in the inner harbour. Roslyn, who runs the place, is super welcoming and once we’d cleared formalities – a bit of a dinghy mission but easy and relaxed - we attached ourselves to a mooring and hopped into the clean harbour water. Bliss.

A few days in the capital is not really enough, but we were keen to start exploring, so after provisioning at the local outdoor market, which is wonderful, and stocking up on well-priced French cheeses, wines and assorted treats, we headed around the corner to Havannah Harbour. At this super sheltered spot on the west side of Efate, the main island, we chanced a meeting with a couple of the cruising world’s famous characters, Lin Pardey and her partner, solo round-the-worlder Dave. After much wine-fuelled discussion, we headed out the following morning to hike up a neighbouring island, which involved a hitchhike, then a rough longboat ride across to Nguna island – longboats here are the local Ubers –where we hiked up to the top. Along the way, we came to a small village in the highlands, and got a lesson in climbing coconut trees and chopping coconuts from a classically French speaking Ni-Van woman called Marie-Therese.

If she had been speaking English, try to imagine a 60-something Melanesian woman in an old dress sounding uncannily like the Queen of England.

Unlike Fiji, with its fringing reefs and sheltered waters, island hopping in Vanuatu is mostly mini ocean crossings, with typical big swells and open water. But once you find a calm spot in the lee of whatever breeze you have, typically SE trades, you find yourself in tropical heaven. The locals are absurdly friendly and gracious, clear water is everywhere, the sea-life including big turtles and dugongs is abundant, and we had some of the best reef snorkelling we’ve ever experienced. But above all, these experiences are made most memorable by the people. The Ni-Vanuatu – or NiVans – are possibly the most genuine, open, inquisitive and delightful people we’ve met in all of our South Pacific cruising.

Arriving into Metenovor Bay on the sheltered southwest side of Malekula, we dropped the pick in about 4m of clear water and, after a quick swim with some turtles, headed to the beach. The greeting we received was typical. The village chief, Kalset, the school principal, Korie, and myriad children greeted us, and made us super welcome. There was no

formality or ritual, just the sense that we were at home. This is a country of cyclonic weather with its attendant village-wide destruction, abundant resources and subsistence living. There are resorts of a sort scattered about, but for the most part, the more isolated islands are free of any tourism, saved for visiting yachts.

The chief, Kal, guided us on a fantastic hike up the mountain behind the village, and showed us the gardens. Apart from the staple crop of coconuts, they primarily grow cocoa beans as a cash crop – exporting about five tonnes annually – with Kal explaining to us how he struggles to impress upon the children that the chocolate they eat (rarely) is made from the beans they grow. Wielding his machete with consummate ease, he chopped off a couple of ripe pods, and opened them up for us. The taste was sublime. We asked about his machete skills and he said that the kids are taught from about the age of four with a small blunt blade – they have to learn with both hands – so that by the time they reach their teens, their skill is scary good. Further up the hill, we had a good look around the village’s primary water source, a mountain stream feeding some quite makeshift plastic piping. During storms, the pipes break or get washed away, and the village is, ironically given the rainfall, without water until they can effect makeshift repairs. Later in the trip, we managed to get to a hardware store in Luganville, the main town on Santo,

to ship some cement and reinforcing steel to Lembinwen, enabling the construction – by hand – of a small dam to solve the problem.

The adventures kept coming. Heading further north, on the east side of Espiritu Santo we came to one of the most gnarly reef entrances we’ve ever seen. We had actually stopped and backed out until one of the locals paddled out and guided us in, once again enjoying a warm welcome to his family compound. 40 acres of beachfront forest, and a collection of shacks. The area we were in is noted for many things, but the highlight has to be the various “Blue Holes”. Santo has a number of these, crystal clear freshwater mini lagoons surrounded by rain forest. We took the dinghy up a slow flowing river for a couple of klicks, came round a corner under some trees to be greeted by what has to be one of the best swimming spots on the planet.

Another highlight was an all-day hike to and through the Millenium Caves. No NZ-style health and safety here, just a bumpy ride in the back of a ute, a muddy and slippery hike though dense forest followed by a vertical descent on makeshift ladders into a 400 metre long underground cave with a river running though it. Once you get through the cave, with its 30m high ceiling and myriad bats, the only way out is to float down a small river canyon for about 45 minutes – the water is tropical warm, fortunately – and then a vertical climb up an

endless series of rickety ropes and ladders. Everywhere we went, the pattern was similar. We would drop anchor in a lovely spot, spend the days swimming, snorkelling, winging and whatever, with regular trips ashore to explore. The welcomes we received were invariably warm and open, apart from one Aussie bloke making it abundantly clear to us and others that he did not want anyone anchoring outside his house in Surundu Bay on Santo. You cannot walk down any road in these more remote parts of Vanuatu without someone stopping to pick you up. It is impossible not to be charmed by this amazing country. Our only regret was that by late November, with the cyclone season approaching, we had to leave and head back down to NZ via Noumea, a little bit of France in our backyard. We’d left our run a bit late to carry out Plan A, as the breeze in the Coral Sea starts to shift from SE – a slide – to NW, a beat. And as we all know, one of the fundamentals of cruising is to never go upwind. If you are contemplating sailing north this year, try to put Vanuatu on your list. We had only a taste and are left wanting to return. And if this is your first time out, hit up Viki at Island Cruising, where there lies a wealth of knowledge and experience of all these amazing South Pacific destinations. With over 8 billion people on our planet, we live next door to perhaps one of the world’s last unspoiled paradises. Lucky us.

North Sails dominates Gold Cup series results

The Gold Cup series is an annual event on the Auckland racing calendar. It is a combined collaboration between the Royal Akarana Yacht Club, Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, Richmond Yacht Club, and Buckland’s Beach Yacht Club.

Five races are held over the summer racing season, with four of those races counting towards the overall result.

With races between 44nm and 89nm in length, the series provides an opportunity for all yachts to stretch their legs throughout a variety of courses, offering many twists and turns along the way.

North Sails powered yachts dominated the PHRF results, with Sassinate taking out the series. Owned and skippered by Mikayla Plaw, Sassinate won four of the five races, with their drop being a DNS in race four.

Sassinate, a Melges 40, runs a full North Sails inventory, with Auckland-based North Sails experts Andrew Wills and Ben Costello as members of the core crew.

“The great thing about working with North Sails is that they are willing to collaborate with the onboard trimmer to ensure a perfect fit. If we ever need to make adjustments to maximise sail shape to the way we have tuned the rig, Norths are there to assist,” said Plaw.

“Having the Norths crew on board has been awesome to maintain and make improvements to the sails. We have tuned our inventory to work better with the New Zealand conditions and the sort of racing we do here, which is more reaching and less windward/leeward racing!”

Andrew Wills, who proudly wears the Sassinate North Sails apparel crew gear, is proud to support the local yachting community.

“It is great to support so many local yachts dominating quintessential Kiwi yacht racing, such as the Gold Cup. We power so many top international grand prix programs, and these local results are really heartening and mean a lot to all of us here at North Sails NZ. It’s great to get out on board and give some of our local customers a hand and have some fun racing with them,” said Wills.

Sassinate boat captain Scott Beavis went on to say, “Having good sails have been helpful in helping Mikayla (Plaw) learn the nuances of driving a boat. With 3Di the sail stays in shape and don’t distort which can disrupt the balance of the boat. Having the right sail made the Melges 40 easier to stay in the groove. Our jibs are Helix so the shape stays where it was designed to be. Norths were open to adopt

The RNZYS is thrilled to have North Sails as our Official Sailmaker for the fleet of new Emirates Team New Zealand Elliott 7’s. Through this partnership, the RNZYS’ Mastercard Youth Training Programme has access to the best sail technology in the world and the support of an extensive network of the most knowledgeable sail designers, sailmakers, and local experts worldwide.

our ideas and create the right sail for what we were trying to do. We weren’t afraid to start again with the rig tune and try and simplify the rig setup.”

The Farr 36OD Kaizen, owned by Simon Manning and Andy Robertson, with Manning at the helm, was second overall on PHRF. With a North Sails main, J1, A2, A3, and A5, the team won Race 4, which Sassinate missed.

There’s hardly a series that Kaizen misses, with the co-owners keen as mustard to get on as many start lines as possible. The Gold Cup Series is an event in which Manning himself is an integral part of the organising team through his role on the RAYC Offshore Racing Committee.

Talking about the Farr 36OD, Manning was quick to say, “The boat is very basic. It’s definitely not a cruiser!”

“We bought her to race, so that’s what we do. The Gold Cup brings clubs and boats together that we don’t see too often which is really enjoyable. And we get to race around lots of islands which is pretty cool. We do as many races as possible, and we have a great team on board, many of whom raced with us on our previous boats,” said Manning.

“We renamed the boat Kaizen, which translates to ‘change for good’ and has always

been our approach to sailing. One example is the recent addition of a North Sails inshore main and J1, which saved something like 30kg over our coastal sails. We are learning some new techniques, such as more frequent adjustments to jib halyard tension, that really work to optimise these new sails. It’s changed how we sail the boat, and we think we’re quicker for it,” continued Manning.

Sassinate is a strong competitor for Kaizen, and the two have gone head-to-head on multiple occasions. Manning went on to say, “Congratulations to Sassinate on a dominant performance - they deserved the win.”

Third overall on PHRF was the Ker40 Carrera. Owned and skippered by John Meadowcroft, the Carrera crew includes North Sails team member Magnus Doole. Carrera added to their existing sail wardrobe by introducing a North Sails main, J2, A2, A1.5 and GS.

“When I decided to get a new set of sails, I scoped the market but ultimately decided to go with North Sails. I believe they provide an edge in performance and are unique with their technology of light yet hardy sail. Having Magnus (Doole) on board also helps with our performance!” said Meadowcroft.

“One of North Sails’ points of difference is

Photo by Liam Dobson, Live Sail Die

their edge in technology with the single piece of 3Di. In my opinion, this put them ahead,” continued Meadowcroft.

Brian Petersen’s TP52 V5 is a regular across all race courses in Auckland and was the biggest boat to race in the fleet of 24 keelboats that made at least one of the five-race start lines. V5 was fourth overall on PHRF and took out Line Honours across the series results.

Petersen intends on racing in the upcoming Helly Hansen Three Kings Race (~500nm), hosted by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, and the Auckland Noumea Yacht Race (~1000nm), organised by the Royal Akarana Yacht Club, also took out the Ran Tan II Memorial Blue Water Championship. This trophy was donated to RAYC by Petersen in memory of his Elliott 50 Ran Tan II, which lost its keel en route to California for the Transpac Race back in June 2019 and was abandoned, never to be seen again.

“I’ve been racing in the local Auckland scene for 40 years now and always keep coming back for more. It’s a disease, I think! The races on offer provide a bit of everything, that’s why we are keen to get on as many start lines as possible,” said Petersen. “We are so fortunate in Auckland and New Zealand to have such a beautiful and varied playground to sail in – so many interesting islands, headlands and bays to check out!”

“North Sails has been my sail maker of choice since about 1986 when I purchased a

spinnaker for Dictator through Simon Daubney.

A well-used sail in the Auckland to Fukuoka Race and many others. North Sails has returned the favour by nearly always having someone on board who knows a lot more about yachts and sail trim than I do! Bicky (Richard Bicknell) has been part of the Maverick 2, Ran Tan II and V5 crews for 20-plus years. He definitely helps with our configuration and set-up. He’s also pretty handy on the helm and great company!” continued Petersen.

V5 is a staunch North Sails supporter, rocking a full inventory of sails. North Sails General Manager Richard Bicknell is a frequent crew member on V5 and is often seen at the helm of the 52-footer. There’s hardly a race this crew misses!

The Sunfast 3300 Indis, owned and skippered by Andy Benton, took out the two-handed

division overall on PHRF. The production boat runs a full North Sails wardrobe. It is regularly seen on various startlines, including the day races across various clubs throughout Auckland, including the Richmond Yacht Club Solo Series, and the Shorthanded Sailing Association of New Zealand two-handed races. Indis has entered the RNZYS Three Kings Race in the two-handed division.

“Willzy (Andrew Wills) has been really good to me over the years setting up the sail inventory for the New Zealand conditions. Once I worked out how to get the boat going, with his guidance on sail selection, I definitely feel that the boat has improved from where we were a year ago,” said Benton.

North Sails actively supports sailing in New Zealand, sponsoring a number of events from grassroots through to high-performance racing. In addition, North Sails is now the exclusive sail supplier of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron and is also a sponsor of Boat 9 in the brand-new fleet of Emirates Team New Zealand Elliott 7s, which were launched at RNZYS on February 27th.

2023 / 2024 Gold Cup Series PHRF Results Top 5

1. Sassinate - Melges 40 (Mikayla Plaw)

2. Kaizen - Farr 36OD (Simon Manning / Andy Robertson)

3. Carerra - Ker 40 (John Meadowcroft)

4. V5 - TP52 (Brian Petersen)

5. Indis - Sunfast 3300 (Andy Benton)

Photography by Suellen Hurling

Foiling in10 hours or less.

The RNZYS Foiling Programme is built on a proven 4-step process that breaks riding into different parts before putting them back together.

The RNZYS Foiling Programme

RNZYS SAILING REPORT

As we bid farewell to an awesome summer, we can’t help but smile at the fantastic weather we’ve been blessed with!

Huge shoutout to our partners at Pernod Ricard for teaming up with Bumbu Rum to sponsor our Summer Rum Races. Hope you all enjoyed tasting the Bumbu. But never fear, our tired and tested Havana Club is making a comeback as the naming sponsor for the Autumn Series starting on the 12th of April.

36 Degrees Commodores Cup, the main event! Squadron weekend was once again the cornerstone event of the summer season. Seeing 37 boats take part in the (slow for some) night race and many more of you parting like its 1995 over on Kawau Island was so much fun.

Our congratulations to Vice Commodore Gillian and husband Nathan Williams for clinching the Martello Rock deed in the Night Race to Kawau, we look forward to seeing what you do with your ‘ownership’.

Next in the 36 Degrees Commodores Cup calendar was the inaugural Tarahiki race, and the sailing office would love to hear your feedback on the race format. Do you prefer the return race format or the Te Kouma destination race? Let us know.

The last big event to mark in your calendars is April 5th! The Commodores Cup Haystack race is wrapping the summer season up with a bang at the North Sails Sundowner Beach Party. It’s going to be epic, with the party and prize-giving happening on Motuihe Island after the race.

A massive thank you to everyone who loaned their boats for the Corporate Regatta. So far moving it to March has been a success, with the better weather coming to join us, resulting in better vibes, and all for a good cause!

Check out this cool pic from the PIC Insurance Brokers Wednesday Series – handing out chilly bags to our awesome participants! Big thanks to PIC.

I’m sure it’s not the first you’re heard about them in this Breeze, but one of the seasons highlights for me has been the launching and first Regatta in our Emirates Team New Zealand Elliott 7’s. It’s so great to have this resource for our Youth and wider members.

Georgia Witt, Membership and Offer Manager

MASTERCARD YOUTH TRAINING PROGRAMME

The Mastercard Youth Training Programme is underway for the year and excitement is sky high. The addition of the brand-new Elliott 7 fleet thanks to Emirates Team New Zealand has been a refreshing boost as the athletes can’t wait to put them through their paces and see what they can do. We now have 40 young sailors who are all eager to grow their skills on and off the water.

With only four sailors graduating from last year and a range of experienced and talented athletes joining from outside the programme, it’s shaping up to be an awesome year. The level has already started strong- We had five teams representing us in the Youth International Match Racing Cup which took place from the 7th-10th of March. Third year helm Rory Sims and his YTP team of Vivien Webster-Chung, Tim McCulloch, Leo Jefferey and Finn Balchin performed well to round out the week in 3rd place. Their first podium finish in a major regatta after steadily trending up over the last season. Rory commented ‘’We ended up 30 kilo underweight so our boat speed felt good when the wind lightened off’. Ethan Fong also impressed with his debut on the helm making the semi-finals before finishing the regatta in 4th. His team of Robbie Wooldridge, George Pilkington and Sam Clark exceeded

expectations- well done to them too.

We’ve had some incredible southwesterly weather to start the year which has led to some quality training for our teams. The group has some ambitious goals for the season, I’m looking forward to them being realised, there’s a whole lot of work and fun to be had before that though. We’re lucky that there’s so many alumni, past coaches, umpires and even talented parents who have offered to give up some time to help our athletes reach their full potential.

On our second day of the programme we ran the ‘Round the Bays’ race for Pete and Blair’s Live Ocean Charity. The squad enjoyed the opportunity to be a little competitive off the water for a cause that is dear to our hearts. We know more than most how important a healthy ocean is for not only the longevity of our sport but our health in general.

The launch for the Elliotts was also a special evening. We had many members of ETNZ and other alumni and supporters. It was a lovely evening to hear about what this programme has meant to NZ sailing and where it is headed. Everyone was impressed by the assets.

BOAT SPONSORS

Zak Merton, Performance Sailing Manager

Mastercard YTP joined the Live Ocean team for Round the Bays running event.

ABD Group Classic Yacht

Regatta 2024: a perspective from across the ditch…

by David McKenzie

Thirteen Aussies headed to Tāmaki Makarau Auckland with something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.

The old? Those who’ve had the pleasure of CYANZ’s hospitality in many past regattas – Doug Shields, Cathy Moore, Philip Brown, Jennie McKenzie and David McKenzie.

The new? First timers Col Anderson, (founder of the CYAA and owner of the magnificent 1923 gaff-rigged Peel cutter, Acrospire III); Albert Doggett and Cecily Vial (custodians of Julia Jane, a Vertue 25), Jim Hutchinson and Janet Dean (from the Tumlaren Dingo); and three of the crew from Philip Brown’s Anitra V, Teresa Ferreir, Steve Cavanagh and Vickki Lincoln.

The borrowed? All those crew places in the beautiful fleet of 24 CYANZ yachts racing in the regatta. Thanks to all the skippers and their regular crews who welcomed the Aussies and made it a special experience for every one of us.

And the blue? The waters of the Hauraki Gulf, forever providing varying race conditions and one of the most scenic locations possible for any regatta.

The weather gods were reasonably compliant except for a little too much wind on Sunday. Friday’s race 1 was run in gentle breezes. Saturday morning saw flaky winds, with just enough to get race 2 underway – but not enough for many boats to get over the finish line within the time limit. (No boat in the A Bermudan division finished in time, leading to the Trans-

Tasman Trophy being scored on a best 4 of 5 basis.) For race 3 in the afternoon, the wind was more consistent. The forecast for Sunday depended on which weather information source one looked at. Some said 10 to15 knots and others over 20 knots. The higher winds played out, testing many old boats to their desired limits and a handful did not compete in the afternoon’s race 5.

The Trans-Tasman Trophy hunt was close, but four firsts and a third gave it to David McKenzie, with Philip Brown second and Jennie McKenzie, Jim Hutchinson, Janet Dean and Teresa Ferreir all equal

third. Many thanks to Iain Valentine for managing both the boat allocation and TransTasman Trophy scoring.

Prizegiving at the Royal NZ Yacht Squadron concluded another wonderful classic yacht regatta with new friendships made and many long-standing ones renewed. After being badgered by some other Aussies for a few years to make the trip to Auckland, Jim Hutchinson was heard to say “this is fantastic, why haven’t I done this before? The first thing I’m doing when I get home is booking for next year”. Bring on 2025!

Photography by Roger Mills - Pastime and Waitangi battle

Robert Brooke – one of three generations of Brookes involved in designing, building and restoring classic wooden boats

CYANZ life member

Robert Brooke is one of three generations of Brookes involved in designing, building and restoring classic wooden boats and racing them on the Waitematā Harbour.

Son of yachtsman and yacht designer Jack Brooke (and father of CYANZ skipper Russell Brooke), Robert is now the grandfather of several fourth-generation sailors, all of them starting out life in one of their grandfather’s handcrafted clinker dinghy bassinets as a precursor to the real thing.

Sailing and the sea have been life-long passions for Robert, as they were for his father Jack. Growing up across the road from Narrowneck Beach, Robert and his siblings Donald and Judy were sailing P-classes and Frostbites (the latter designed and built by their father from 1938) as soon as they had learned to swim,

he says. His father designed 250 craft – everything from canvas canoes and wooden sailing dinghies (the Sunburst in 1962, along with the Frostbite perhaps the best known), to launches, trailer-sailers and racing keelers (several part of the CYA fleet today); and, in 1972, the 90-foot steel squarerigged sail training vessel, Spirit of Adventure.

“Dad was an engineer, but his love was yachting and designing boats.”

Robert had his sights set on becoming a boat designer and builder when he finished school in 1955 and completed a boatbuilding apprenticeship with Percy Vos (in what is now the heritage-listed Vos Shed in the Wynward Quarter). He went on to work with Snow Waters and John and had his own boatbuilding yard for a couple of years. However, a

slipway accident in 1964 forced him to change tack.

After a brief stint in a chandlery, he retrained as a technical drawing, woodwork and maths teacher and taught in various Auckland schools and at teachers’ training college for 35 years. He also tutored boatbuilding apprentices and taught boatbuilding hobby classes –building boats himself as a hobby “as soon as my back came right”.

Passionate about fostering boatbuilding skills, Robert moved from school teaching to the Boating Industry Training Association. The new apprenticeship system he designed significantly increased the number of boatbuilding apprentices in NZ (from 65 to 500, he says) – and led to involvement in designing a similar programme in Nova Scotia.

“Then in 2006 I was approached to see if I wanted to run a Traditional Boatbuilding School.” He worked there both as an administrator and tutor for seven years.

Robert has promoted sailing and boatbuilding throughout his life, teaching others the skills to build and sail boats, starting up schools’ yacht racing and building and racing boats himself. Aside from the keel boats Karemea and Kiteroa and the launch Pirimai, he has built numerous clinker

dinghies, Frostbites and Sunbursts, “pretty much just for the cost of the materials: It has been all about helping people get into sailing. It gives me so much satisfaction to see so many people able to enjoy sailing.”

His last restoration job was five years of painstaking work (with help from sons Russell, Michael and Stephen) on the fire-gutted 48’ launch Linda, built by Col Wilde in 1927: “It’s a beautiful boat.”

Robert’s latest boat-building job has been a Starling for one of his granddaughters. It will be the last boat he builds, he says – although he will continue making models from demolition kauri…

Robert Brooke in his workshop

Marine Scen e

Daring mission to redefine maritime records while advocating for a cleaner ocean

Lisa Blair, a well-known Australian sailor, with records including the fastest person to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around Antarctica on her yacht Climate Action Now, is on a daring mission to redefine maritime records while advocating for a cleaner ocean.

Her current endeavor, to break the Sydney to Auckland record and establish an around New Zealand single-handed record is testament to her audacity, passion and skill. Setting sail on her high-performance yacht, Climate Action Now, Blair will soon tackle the formidable Tasman Sea as her latest solo adventure.

Blair’s ambitions extend beyond accolades. With a deep concern for the environment, she plans to circumnavigate New Zealand

single-handedly, aiming to draw attention to the pervasive issue of microplastics in our oceans. By embarking on this challenging journey, Blair seeks to shed light on the detrimental impact of human activity on marine ecosystems. Her voyage symbolizes a fusion of adventure and activism, inspiring us all to take action in preserving the fragile beauty of our seas. Follow all the latest from Lisa’s Records attempts on her website or the RNZYS Facebook page.

Lisa will be hosting a speaking event at RNZYS with dates to be confirmed. Follow Lisa at Lisablairsailstheworld.com

Thank you, NZ Rigging

The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron would like to extend our thanks to NZ Rigging who worked tirelessly to provide the Mast Boom and Rigging packages for the new fleet of Elliott 7’s.

Started by ex-Youth Scheme graduate Richard Bearda (Bart) in 2002 on his return from the Volvo Ocean race, NZ Rigging is 100% locally owned, and proudly complete all their manufacturing in New Zealand.

Bart and his dedicated team are active sailors who are passionate about what they do, and continually develop and improve fittings, designs, and ideas. Having built over 700 masts in Auckland, which have been exported all over the world for both Cruising and Race Boats, with 90% of what they manufacture in NZ exported. NZ Rigging initially built Alloy masts but in more recent times this has transition to be primarily carbon with 95% of todays manufacturing now in carbon.

Operating from two 350sqm factories side by side in Kumeu, one being the lamination clean room and the other for fitout and assembly, the team at NZ Rigging offer a full service and repair solution for all types of masts and rigging. They also work closely with all sailmakers.

Bart says, ‘the doors are always open to anyone that would like to come and have a look at what we do.’

Thank you, NZ Rigging for bringing our new fleet of Elliott 7’s to life.

SSANZ announce return of the Evolution Sails Northern Triangle

The Shorthanded Sailing Association of New Zealand (SSANZ) has announced the return of the Evolution Sails Northern Triangle, for its second edition, in February 2025.

The week-long event will see three legs, with stopovers in Mangonui and Marsden Cove, before a final sprint leg back to Auckland. With a total course length of just under 500nm, this two-handed adventure is sure to appeal to many RNZYS Members who may be considering tackling the SSANZ Round North Island Yacht Race in 2026.

With numbers strictly limited, in line with previous SSANZ events, RNZYS members who are keen to participate are encouraged to enter on the day entries open – 1st May 2024.

SSANZ is a partner club of the RNZYS, and we are looking forward to supporting the SSANZ team and participants for what will be a fabulous two-handed sailing event.

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia Open Entries for their Inaugural Sydney to Auckland race

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) has opened entries for their inaugural Trans-Tasman Yacht Race starting on 28th February 2025. The race from Sydney traverses over 1,270 nautical miles across the Tasman Sea and rounds the top of the North Island to finish in front of RNZYS. We are proud to be partnering with CYCA as the official Race Finishing Partner.

Introducing NPL Renew –

A sustainable sailcloth for cruising by North Sails

Constructed with more than 90% raw materials from sustainable sources, the first RENEW product is a North Panel Laminate performance sailcloth for cruising boats 25 to 45 ft. The RENEW product delivers equal performance and longevity in a sustainable way.

North Sails is a pioneering force in sail making, boasting an impressive legacy marked by groundbreaking innovations and technological advances that have revolutionised sailing. As the global industry leader, North Sails is equally committed to finding solutions for sustainable sails, low-impact manufacturing, the use of alternative fibres, and opportunities for material circularity. The launch of RENEW sailcloth therefore marks an important shift towards building more sustainable sails with the best materials.

RENEW Product Director Tom Davis says, “There’s been a lot of rigorous work behind the scenes over a number of years to ensure RENEW is a sailcloth with legitimate sustainability credentials. This product has been tested to the absolute limit, and we are confident that a sail constructed with RENEW will offer comparable, unbeatable durability and sail shape for our cruising customers without compromising on performance.”

The Trans-Tasman has been designed both for racing yachts and racer/cruisers and is set to be an exciting addition to CYCA’s summer international offshore race calendar. Planned to run biennially, alternating with the CYCA’s Ponant Sydney Noumea Yacht Race every other year, a distinctive feature of the event will be its staggered start, spread over a three-day period from 28 February to 2 March 2025.

Competitors’ start times will be assigned based on their boat’s IRC or PHS ratings. This should result in closer finishing times and a festive celebration in Auckland.

With over 30 boats having previously submitted expressions of interest, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia anticipates a strong and varied fleet for the 2025 race.

For updates and further information, including the list of entrants, visit the official Trans-Tasman Yacht Race website.

NZ Chinese Yacht Club Officially Launched at Auckland Boatshow

On 14 March The NZ Chinese Yacht Club (NZCYC) held its launch ceremony at the Auckland Boatshow in Jellicoe Harbour. The establishment of this club marks a significant milestone in promoting water sports participation among the Chinese community in New Zealand, enhancing safety awareness, and fostering greater interaction within the yachting and boating community.

The unveiling ceremony commenced with a speech by Allan Lan, the Chairman of NZCYC. Allan Lan initiated the establishment of the New Zealand Chinese Yachting and Boating Association in 2020, and after three years of challenges posed by the pandemic, they finally launched at NZ’s premier boat exhibition. They also announced their collaboration with the

Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS), providing members with duel membership of both clubs, offering a wide range of events and membership benefits. With 23 years of industry experience, Allan Lan also emphasised the imperative of assuming responsibility for maritime safety to prevent accidents.

New Zealand’s yachting and boating industry stands at the forefront globally, and Allan Lan contemplates how to engender an appreciation for this lifestyle among the local Chinese community. The NZCYC’s inception offers a diverse array of aquatic activities for the Chinese community, contributing positively to the cultural diversity of water sports in New Zealand.

Talk to the North Sails Team today about RENEW Sailcloth for your next sail!

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The Beacon that is the Lighthouse Cafe

A beacon of light shone brightly on the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron once the doors of the Lighthouse Cafe were open to not only members, but to the general public as well.

We all get those crazy coffee caffeine cravings, which is why the Lighthouse Cafe was a welcome addition to the Squadron when we opened on the 1st October back in 2023.

With a delightful selection of wraps, sandwiches, salads, and slices (and fruit cups for

the health conscious), The Lighthouse Cafe is open from 0600 to 1600 hours each and every day of the week, with a breakfast menu to delight your taste buds on the weekends – the perfect start to any Saturday Series race (no matter which club you choose to race from).

Serving Zephyr Coffee with a smile, including puppuccinos, The Lighthouse Cafe is pet friendly, people friendly, and a fantastic place to meet for a social catch-up, or that all important business deal.

RNZYS members simply swipe your membership card at Lighthouse Cafe

Not a member? Download the FREE Lighthouse Loyalty App now and start earning rewards!

NZ’S NEW EXCLUSIVE LAGOON DEALER

36° Brokers proudly announces an exclusive partnership with Lagoon Catamarans, enhancing its boat offerings in New Zealand. This strategic alliance underscores the company's commitment to meeting the rising demand for luxury multihulls in the region.

This new addition complements 36° Brokers' New boat portfolio of Beneteau and Excess Catamarans while adding to their already strong multihull brokerage presence in the bluewater cruiser market. Leveraging their expertise in facilitating successful vessel transactions, including pickups and deliveries in Europe and New Zealand, 36° Brokers ensures seamless transitions and ongoing support for new Lagoon owners