Tide lines: Cleaner PWCs

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has bought 14 Yamaha Waverunner FX140 personal watercraft for the state's waterways patrol fleet. Conservation commissioner Erin Crotty says the new four-stroke Yamahas were more than 80 per cent cleaner than conventional two-stroke PWCs and would also give big savings on fuel and oil costs. The first FX140s for this country will be unveiled at the New Zealand Boat Show in Auckland from May 30 to June 3.

Tariff threat

The proposals by the United States to boost its sagging steel industry by introducing a tariff on steel imports has struck a nerve with Europe's marine industry. The European Union has threatened its own tariffs on a host of US products imported into Europe, including recreational boats. The National Marine Manufacturers Association in the US says retaliation of this type would deal a severe blow to the boating industry's export business, already at a disadvantage because of an overvalued dollar.

Brighter lights

A new generation of high-output lights is being hailed as a significant breakthrough in marine lighting technology. The Taylorbrite cold cathode fluorescent (CCF) technology delivers brighter illumination, longer bulb life and lower power draw-off. Importer Lusty and Blundell says the CCF lights have a 25,000-hour life span. They also have increased resistance to shock, vibration and voltage fluctuation.

Water-watch

From this weekend yacht clubs are moving into winter mode. Activity includes:

Saturday and Sunday: Green Meanie series for any senior classes (Takapuna).

Saturday: Winter series begins (RNZYS).

Sunday: Short-handed winter series (RYC); Winter series starts (BBYC); Fully crewed winter series starts (RAYC); Howick winter series (HSC); Winter race 1, 12.30 start (GHYC).

* Clubs and organisations planning events on or in the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on 0800 80 60 40.