Tidelines: Boat hunt

The National Maritime Museum has an SOS out for some breakthrough boats by three of the country's most innovative designers Jim Young, Des Townson and Bruce Farr. The museum is mounting a series of theme weeks that will feature the boats and the thoughts of each man. From April 16 to 24 the spotlight is on Young. Ashley Rickman, at the museum, wants to see Fiery Cross, Extreme, the NZ37 Namu, a Young 88 and a Vindex in the water at Hobson Wharf. Anyone who can help should call him on (09) 373 0800.

Innovation rewarded

The North Shore company High Modulus this week won a Trade New Zealand Export Award for its work in composite engineering and technology. High Modulus managing director Richard Downs-Honey, when accepting the gong from Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Pete Hodgson, had some words of praise for his staff. "Most of the team are actively involved with boating, which gives them an intimate knowledge of the market they serve which is a big part of the secret of our success."

New rule

The Maritime Safety Authority has released a new rule covering many aspects of navigation safety and recreational requirements. Included are operating rules for PWCs, flotation devices, age restrictions and more.

Water-Watch

The Flying Fifteen North Island championships will be sailed out of the Royal Akarana Yacht Club this weekend.

Saturday: Summer cruising race (DYC); Station Bay race (DYC); Lindauer Cruising, Race 5 and Printing Express mullet boat series, Race 6 to Paremoremo (PCC); Black Heart rum race (PYBC).

Saturday and Sunday: Olympicsail continues, plus P-Class, Starlings and 420s, at Torbay (TSC).

Sunday: Return race from Kawau (CCYC); Small boat summer series, M-Class, ff15 and Solings (RAYC); Black Heart rum race (PYBC).

* Clubs and organisations planning activity on the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on (09) 366 2070.