Tidelines: Shows update

The combined Marine Industry Association-IMTEC boat show at Viaduct Harbour from March 10-14 has hit the right spot with exhibitors, says chief executive Peter Busfield. The land-based component was a sell-out three weeks ago and the on-the-water space is filling fast.

Busfield says combining with the IMTEC exhibition, previously held at Princes Wharf, has proved the right decision "which will result in an exhibition that will appeal to the serious boater".

The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, at the Auckland Showgrounds, will be a little later this year because Queen's Birthday Monday falls on June 7 - the first Monday of that month. General manager Dave Gibbs says the June 3-7 exhibition will give Australian exhibitors and clients the opportunity to take in the show, which previously tended to clash with Sanctuary Cove.

YAMAHA CARROT

Outboard motor buyers who choose Yamaha between now and the end of March have the chance of winning a prize to help to get through winter weekends when boating is not an option. Six $11,999 flat-screen Panasonic TV sets will be given away.

Buy a 2.5hp outboard and get one entry. A 200-300hp model offers 10 chances.


WATER-WATCH

The third leg of the New Zealand Offshore Powerboat Championships will provide serious action on the water today. The first leg of the race to Whangarei starts from Brown's Island at 10am. A break will be taken at Kawau Island for the slower boats to catch up before the second leg at noon.

Auckland and Northland harbourmasters want boaties who are fishing, diving or sailing today to avoid the race area if possible. All competitors are bound by navigation and safety bylaws, but everyone on the water must take care to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for competitors, race viewers and the boating public. Other activity:

Saturday: Round-the-Island race at Kawau, including classics (RNZYS).

Saturday and Sunday: Sail Auckland regatta continues (Kohimarama YC and Takapuna SC); Family cruising event for trailer yachts (Waitemata TYS).

* Clubs and organisations planning events in or on the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register well in advance with the Auckland Regional Council Customer Service Centre on (09) 366 2000. The new 24-hour response number for the ARC maritime unit is (09) 362 0397.