Tidelines: North Shore initiates China opportunity

The North Shore City Council, which is establishing an economic and cultural relationship with Qingdao city in eastern China, sees an opportunity there for the marine industry. Qingdao, which will host the 2008 Olympic sailing regatta, is spending vast amounts of money on boating related infrastructure.

Shore councillor Paul Dunphy will host a session at the Marine Industry Association boardroom, 85 Westhaven Drive, from 10am on Wednesday, February 1. He will brief members and interested marine industry people on the council's plans for Qingdao, both in relation to the Olympics and the superyacht industry.

* * *

WaterSafe Auckland has received a call for help from the new Gumboots Early Childhood Centre opening this month at Waimauku. The centre needs a boat to add to the playground equipment and so far has been unable to find a dinghy or small runabout suitable for young children to use.

Anyone who can help should call Melissa Anthony on (09) 411 9038. The centre promises to include water awareness in its programmes.

* * *

The Dutch company Argos Yacht Builders will introduce two series of steel motoryachts at this year's Boot Holland, at Leeuwarden from February 10 to 15. Designed by naval architect Jan Visser, the Line 1250 is a 12.5m (41ft) cruiser and the Classic 1150 is an 11.5m (38ft) cutter with a counter stern.

* * *

Club cruising and interdominion competition make up this weekend's sailing programme.

Today and Tomorrow: The 12ft Skiff Interdominion Championships conclude (Auckland Sailing Club).
Tomorrow: Old Fox to Motuihe (Devonport YC).

Organisations planning events on or in the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register in advance with the Auckland Regional Council on (09) 366 2000. The 24-hour response number for the ARC maritime unit is (09) 362 0397.