The New Zealand marine industry will get a taste of competition from the other side of the globe next week, from October 16 to 20. Making a splash in town is a British marine trade mission made up of 14 companies promoting everything from wet-weather gear to electronics, anchors and everything in between. Supported jointly by the British Consulate-General and the British Marine Federation, the promotional drive is timed to coincide with the Louis Vuitton challenger series and Britain's first attempt at the America's Cup in 15 years with Peter Harrison's GBR Challenge.
Yamaha wins
The 2002 Yamaha President's Award, the gong that goes to the best performing Yamaha company in the world, has been won by Yamaha Motor New Zealand. Marine team chief Greg Fenwick says the company has seen spectacular growth since adopting a new structure that has been hugely successful. The award recognises increased market share and engine sales for motorcycle and marine.
Aussie attack
ADI Ltd, a Transfield-Thales company that has a shipyard in Newcastle, Australia, is widening its specialist shipbuilding skills - which include working in composites - to include big leisure craft. The company says the owners of the superyacht Vava have brought it from New Zealand for a refit. ADI hopes to attract similar work from the luxury yachts after they've been to Auckland for the America's Cup.
Water-watch
The first round robin of the Louis Vuitton challenger series continues this weekend. Those on the water should listen to Channel 18 and the coastguard for updates.
Other action this weekend includes:
Saturday: Gulf racing series begins (Weiti BC); Gold Cup Icebreaker series, Race 1 (RAYC).
Sunday: Small-boat summer series starts, FF15s. M-Class and Solings (RAYC); Open days at Bucklands Beach, Ponsonby and Akarana. At Okahu Bay, Akarana also launches the club's new sailing academy.
* Clubs and organisations planning events on the Waitemata and Manukau harbours should register with the Auckland Regional Council's Enviroline on (0800) 80 60 40.fuend
<i>Tidelines:</i> Britannia rules
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