Tidelines: Bigger new Bavaria, no price increase

Heading our way in the next few weeks is the Bavaria 46, offering more extras than the Bavaria 44, which has been popular with Kiwi cruising sailors. As well as the extra length, the 46 has a bigger interior layout with three double cabins and a single cabin with two bunk berths. Its new version carries extra sail on a taller rig but comes at the same basic price of $395,000. More on International Marine

Italian mission bringing wide range of products

Nine leading companies will be represented on an Italian trade mission to Auckland from November 24 to 28. Products being promoted include electronics, lifejackets, liferafts, textiles, water-makers, cranes and a huge range of marine hardware for boats of all sizes. The mission is being managed on behalf of the Italian Trade Commission by Stillwater Associates. New Zealand companies seeking information can call Peter Rachtman on (09) 426 4242.

Shore contest raising cash for guide dogs

The guide dog service of the Royal New Zealand Foundation for the Blind will be the sole beneficiary from a fishing contest off Takapuna Beach next Saturday. Part of a three-year sponsorship arrangement with the Bayleys Group, the contest has prize packages worth more than $60,000. Fishing will start from 5am and end at 4pm in an area from Cape Rodney to the northern tip of Little Barrier and Cape Colville. Entry details from Jo Taylor on (09) 489 0992 or jot@bayleysnorthshore.co.nz

Water-watch

This weekend sees more clubs getting to grips with the new season as competition resumes after the winter recess. Main activities:

Saturday: Open day (Bucklands Beach YC).

Saturday and Sunday: Opening weekend (Takapuna BC).

Sunday: Opening day (Murrays Bay SC and Auckland SC).

Clubs and organisations planning events should register well in advance with the ARC Customer Service Centre on (09) 366 2000. The 24-hour response number for the ARC maritime unit is (09) 362 0397.

Editorial inquiries to Robin Bailey (09) 524 4572; email rbailey@ihug.co.nz