Tidelines: Show boat

A family boat package comprising this Haines Hunter SR535 sports runabout, powered by a Yamaha 115hp outboard and complete with other marine recreational goodies, is the gate prize for next year's New Zealand Boat Show. One show visitor will win it by checking in to a series of prize stations at the show, which will run from June 3 to 7 at the Auckland Showgrounds.

Live-in course

There are still some places available for the next Royal Akarana Yacht Club Opti-Sail course from January 11 to 14. Sailing programme director Sonya Swinburne runs the high-pressure live-in course for both boys and girls. Inquiries to (09) 524 9945.

Water-Watch

The Auckland Regional Council's maritime team will be handing out zip-lock plastic bags to boaters on our waterways this summer.

For the past three Safe Summer campaigns their positive boating messages have been backed up by gifts of chocolate fish and sweets. This year's plastic bags are seen as a cheap and practical way of keeping cellphones dry.

Hans Swete of the ARC says that while mobile phones are not the recommended method of seeking assistance, it is recognised that most boats now have one on board and they have to be kept dry. The bags also contain messages on safe boating and skipper responsibility.

"We much prefer handing out rewards than infringement notices, because $200 spent on safety equipment is far better than a fine," says Swete.



The competitive sailing scene slips into holiday mode from this weekend, with Gulf Harbour Yacht Club's Saturday cruising race the only official event on the calendar.

* Clubs and organisations planning events in or on the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register well in advance with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on (09) 360 2070. The 24-hour response number for the ARC maritime unit is (09) 362 0397.