Tidelines: Let's get Blake memorial right

By ROBIN BAILEY

A black boat in a glass box on Auckland's doorstep or a Hauraki Gulf island preserved as an ecological gem? Those are the options being promoted to find a fitting tribute to Sir Peter Blake.

There is no argument. Auckland and New Zealand must do both.

Auckland Mayor John Banks and Sports Minister Trevor Mallard are committed to the display case at the National Maritime Museum option.

They have some of the money and it is fitting that the Museum of New Zealand, which exists on Government funding, is putting some substantial dollars into that project.

The dollar cost of securing Kaikoura Island and making the sort of transformation there that has already been achieved at Tiritiri Matangi and Kapiti Island is significant, but would best recognise Blake's unfulfilled ambitions for the environment.

Brian Rudman put the case for the Hauraki Gulf island in the Herald on May 23.

There has been considerable support for that option. But the Maritime Museum and Downtown Auckland would both benefit from an added attraction, and locals and visitors alike would happily pay to see the boat that has been in storage since winning that cup.

Banks would love your input. He's at Private Bag 92 516, Wellesley St, Auckland or email to mayor@akcity.co.nz.

Herald Feature: Peter Blake, 1948-2001

Optimist courses

Royal Akarana Yacht Club is taking bookings for the remaining series of school holiday courses in its successful learn-to-sail programme.

First up is an eight-day Level 2 course from September 22 to October 2. Details from Caroline Baker on 09 524 9945 or on www.rayc.org.nz.

Water-watch

The main focus is again on winter racing this weekend. Activity includes:

Saturday: Women's winter series (PCC); Fully crewed series continues (RYC); MRX match-racing continues (RNZYS).

Sunday: Winter series Race 2 (PCC).

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