Tidelines: Bombardier sell-off

The giant Bombardier group is selling its recreational products division as part of a major restructuring designed to allow the corporation to strengthen its aerospace and transportation divisions. The recreational sector includes Johnson and Evinrude outboard motors, personal watercraft, sports boats, snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles.

Aussie assault

New Zealand's best-selling trailer boat magazine is about to tackle the Australian market. An all-Aussie version of Propeller will go on sale next month. Co-publisher Doug Dukeson says the magazine will be based on the Gold Coast. Edited by New Zealand boating journalist Barry Tyler, the bi-monthly Australian Propeller will be launched at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show running from May 22 to 25.

New outboards

A worldwide launch of a new range of low-emission outboards will be made by Yamaha at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show from May 29 to June 2. Yamaha NZ chief Greg Fenwick says the new outboards, in all horsepower ratings, will confirm the brand's lead in offering boaters the broadest range of low-emission motors.

Brokerage change

The recreational arm of Laurie Collins Marine Brokers has been bought by Mack Storey and Frank Coggan. Geoff Fraser will now concentrate on the commercial side of the brokerage and plans to expand to the South Island. He has also retained the New Zealand agency for Hunter yachts.

Water-watch

Class and small keelboat championships are highlights of a big competitive yachting programme this weekend. Activity includes:

Saturday: Owhanake race (DYC); French Bay AMI regatta (FBBC); Round-Rangitoto race, including classics (RNZYS); Riverhead race for Mullet boats (PCC).

Saturday and Sunday: Townson 32 championships (BBYC); Young 88 nationals, off East Coast Bays (RNZYS); Small keelboat championships (RAYC); Auckland Laser masters, either Tamaki or Lake Pupuke.

Sunday: M-class harbour series (RNZYS); Sails Speciality harbour race (PCC); Singlehanded race (RYC); Women's race (Weiti BC); A. Foster and Co Vintage and veterans, including classics (PCC).

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