Tidelines: Mirror search

Takapuna Boating Club needs help. Its members have been teaching youngsters to sail since 1975 and five years ago started a programme for adults who didn't learn to sail as children. The yacht they use is the two-handed Mirror dinghy, created for Britain's Mirror newspaper in the 1980s and sold in kitset form. It is ideal for Shoal Bay, at Bayswater on Auckland's North Shore, which is tidal. The mast does not get stuck in the mud when the yacht capsizes. A Jack Holt design, it is 11ft long, with jib, main and spars, which stow in the boat. The club has five and wants to track down more. Anyone who can help should call Janet Garrett on (09) 445 1739.

Five newcomers

Electronic Navigation Ltd has added five new products to its Lowrance Matrix range. Selected for their suitability for New Zealand conditions, the Matrix 2002 Series uses the same body styling, which provides a balanced look when dual units are mounted. A feature of the sonar units is the ability to identify fish targets hidden by thermoclines, weed beds and other clutter. An instant zoom allows the operator to look at targets more closely.

Aussie expands

The Australian boatbuilder Whittley Marine has appointed a New York company, Beaver Dam Marine, to distribute its range of family cruisers in the United States. The company specialises in boat rentals and has a successful track record in the import/export sector.

Water-Watch

Most competitive action this weekend is at the bottom end of the sailing ladder, with the Optimist National Championships beginning off Narrow Neck Beach today. Best viewing is from the southern end of Takapuna Beach, with racing from 10am. Most serious Easter cruising to Te Kouma (PYBC), Ponui (DYC), Leigh (PCC) and Onetangi (VCC). The Westhaven Yacht Club's event started yesterday. Highlights:

Saturday: Young 88 National Championships begin, with racing between Murrays Bay and Rangitoto (RNZYS); Race to Coromandel (BBYC); Cruising race to Coromandel (RAYC).

* Clubs and organisations planning events on or in the water should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on 0800 80 60 40.