Tidelines: Viaduct show

The Viaduct Basin will host the fourth Boating Industries Association on-the-water boat show from March 22 to 24. The show is again sponsored by Boating New Zealand magazine and will feature some of the latest yachts and launches at the top end of the market.

The BIA has set the dates for this year's NZ Marine Industry Conference. It will be held at Wairakei on April 11 and 12. Business speaker and writer Dr Ian Brooks will give the keynote address.

Open houses

The Auckland Yacht and Boating Association has made Waitangi Day an open day at the region's keelboat clubs. The Westhaven Yacht Club is welcoming cruising-orientated boating people to Pier V23 between 10 am and 3 pm to mix and mingle with members. Hetty Goodwin is handling inquiries on (09) 626 5809.

Huntsman again

Christchurch boatbuilding company CBS Huntsman has again won the tender to supply the gate prize for the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, at the Auckland Showgrounds over Queen's Birthday Weekend, May 30 to June 3. The prize is a New Generation Dorado, powered by a 115hp Evinrude FICHT outboard. The boat will come with a safety package and marine electronics from Raymarine.

Water-Watch

North Head and Orakei Wharf will be ideal vantage points to catch some yachting action this weekend. A fleet of 25 spectacularly fast keelboats, with crews of five, is expected for the Sports Boat Regatta to be raced at the eastern end of the harbour. The boats will be out of the water overnight at the Royal Akarana Yacht Club at Okahu Bay. Other weekend activity:

Saturday: Printing Express race (PCC); Cruising race to Riverhead (RAYC); Round Kawau race (RNZYS); Single-handed race (Weiti).

Sunday: Open Day, centreboard clubs; Return race from Kawau (RYC); Club picnics (BBYC, PCC); NZ Waterski National Championships, Maraetai Sailing Club, public welcome.

Clubs and organisations planning activity on or in the water of either the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on 0800 80 60 40.