Tidelines: Stamp issue

New Zealand Post, in association with the Boating Industry Association, is planning a special stamp to be issued in late 2002 as a lead-up to the Louis Vuitton America's Cup Challenger series and the New Zealand defence in 2003. The stamps will feature cruising and racing yachts, and launches that have been designed and built in New Zealand and which are unique in design and innovation. Contact: Caroline Ellis at the BIA office on (09) 377 6800.

METS growing

This year's Marine Equipment Trade Show from November 13 to 15 in Amsterdam will be the biggest in the exhibition's history. The 14 national pavilions include Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden, Britain and the United States.

Gamefishing extra

New from Raymarine is the L1250 fishfinder and L1250RC fishfinder/chartplotter, both designed with the passionate game-fisher in mind. Mark Milburn, the Raymarine line manager at Lusty and Blundell, says the units give phenomenal performance and resolution. The daylight viewable screen ensures detailed colour pictures in even the brightest sunlight. The L1250 connects, through the HSB network, to multiple radar, chartplotter or fishfinder displays giving instant access to waypoints, detailed cartography and existing or planned routes.

Engine deal

Volvo Penta has signed an agreement to continue supplying engines to the giant French boatbuilder Beneteau Group. The agreement, which also covers drive systems and accessories, will involve more than 2000 engines.

Water watch

Most activity this weekend will be on Lake Pupuke for the centreboard regatta.

Saturday: Optimist, P-Class, Starling and 29ers contest the centreboard regatta (MBSC).

Sunday: Akarana two-handed series (RAYC). To list events on the Waitemata or Manukau Harbours call the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on 0800 80 60 40.