Tidelines: Ruamano risks

Hindsight is wonderful. Many marine experts have been critical of the crew of the launch Ruamano for abandoning ship after running into serious seas after rounding the top of the North Island.

Owner Sefton Powrie and just-retired Heart Foundation director Boyd Swinburn knew what they were about and had aboard an experienced team for the first leg, which they realised would be tough. They also had the most up-to-date survival equipment available.

That the Ruamano was capable of a circumnavigation was proved in 1925. That Powrie, Swinburn and the crew made the right decision to abandon ship when rescue was at hand surely must remain a decision for the skipper. Prudent seamanship demands the safety of the crew must be first priority.

Regatta day lunch

The Royal New Zealand Navy will host the New Zealand Herald Auckland Anniversary Regatta luncheon on the frigate Te Kaha on January 29. Following last year's successful lunch, the Navy has invited the Herald Foundation to repeat the occasion. A limited number of tickets will be sold to the public.

Representatives of the foundation, as well as the Governor- General, the Maritime Commander Auckland and Te Kaha's commander will attend. All money raised will go to charity: the Sea Scouts and Watersafe Auckland. Te Kaha, anchored off North Head, will act as a marker for the regatta.

Tickets for the lunch cost $230 and are available from the Herald Foundation on (09) 376-3222.