Tidelines: Secrets of the giant squid

The next presentation in the National Maritime Museum August lecture series is on Tuesday, with Dr Steve O'Shea talking squid and conservation. The Auckland University of Technology marine researcher is continuing his programme to unveil the secrets of the giant squid and pushing for more conservation-minded fishing techniques. Lectures start at 7pm. Details on www.nzmaritime.org. Regular coverage of the O'Shea-AUT squid programme is screened on the Discovery Channel, which is a co-sponsor of the project.

Furuno prize pool set to top $155,000

The 2005 Lion Red Furuno fishing tournament will run from February 24 to 26 at Pah Farm, Kawau Island. The organisers say the prize pool will at least match the $155,000 contestants in the country's most successful fishing-fest took away last year. The contest usually runs in March but is being brought forward next year because of the early Easter and other conflicting marine promotions, including the On-the-Water Boat Show. Tickets and site bookings will go on sale from October 1 and will be available on line at www.furunofish.co.nz

National Boat Show space filling fast

Space is almost fully booked for the National Boat Show at Mystery Creek, Hamilton, from August 26 to 29. The main focus will be on the boats, but the programme includes fishing gear, fashion, on-the-water jet-boat action and live demonstrations. The show is a joint promotion between Mystery Creek Event Centre and the Marine Industry Association and inquiries can be made to (07) 843 4499.

Water-watch

The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron's winter MRX match-racing series ends today as other winter racing winds down. Main activity includes:

Saturday: Winter MRX series (RNZYS); Women's winter series (Ponsonby CC).

Sunday: Fully-crewed series (RAYC); Gill winter series (PCC).

* Clubs and organisations planning events should register with the ARC on (09) 366 2000. Editorial inquiries to Robin Bailey (09) 524 4572; email rbailey@ihug.co.nz