Tidelines: Boating benefits

An American survey shows children who go boating are healthier both physically and mentally than those who stay ashore. Conducted by the National Marine Manufacturers Association, the survey used a random sample of 1004 children, half of whom had parents who were regular boaters and half of whom did not. The results showed children who boated were better team players (63 per cent compared with 43 per cent), more optimistic (52 per cent to 43 per cent) and self-confident (75 per cent to 65 per cent).

Models galore

The June/July issue of Propeller magazine lists a staggering 780 trailerboats available on the New Zealand market. The feature covers new models in aluminium, fibreglass, plastic and inflatables. The article splits the market into two lists, one by brand and method of construction and the other by style and size. Visit the Propeller website

Thinking big

Auckland businessman Mike Walsh is going for size and speed for the America's Cup charter market. He is offering a buy/lease deal on a 30m wave-piercing ferry that can carry 180 passengers at 24 knots. It is one of the big fleet turned out by the International Catamarans yard in Hobart.

Water-watch

Liz Morse and Bruce Goff from the Auckland Regional Council's maritime operations unit are putting a new splash on safety at the New Zealand Boat Show. Their Liz and Bruce Go Boating demonstrations show how not to do things in small boats. From 1.40pm every day.

Activity on the harbour this weekend:

Saturday: Women's winter series (PCC); fully crewed winter series (RYC).

Sunday: Logan winter series (PCC); Winter series (MYMBC).

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