Tidelines: Simrad announces acquisition

Simrad Yachting has announced a US$215 million ($312 million) acquisition of Lowrance Electronics. The merger will make Simrad the major source of electronics for boats ranging from dinghies to commercial fishing fleets, race yachts and superyachts. The deal will strengthen the electronics giant's presence throughout the marine sector by adding Lowrance to the B&G product range it already owns.

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Many of the world's top yacht designers and researchers will be in Auckland for the second High Performance Yacht Design Conference from February 14 to 16. Hosted by the Royal Institution of Naval Architects, the University of Auckland and Massey University, the conference will hear 26 papers presented by authors from 14 nations. First event is a lecture open to the public at Auckland University. Details on www.hpyd.org.nz

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The WaterSafe Auckland 2005-6 Safe Summer campaign is being supported by a website that is helping to spread the message. Executive director Sandy Harrop says it gives added exposure to outdoor promotions by the Safe Summer team. It also contains information for boaters, parents, teachers, newly arrived migrants and the general community. The campaign is being supported by a television campaign that carries the message Wise Up To The Water. Details on www.watersafe.org.nz.

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After the big weekend on the water for Auckland Anniversary, things begin to settle down for the next three days, ending with the Waitangi Day holiday.

Today, tomorrow and Monday: Sail Auckland (Kohimarama Yacht Club and Milford Sailing Club); Zephyr 50th Anniversary (Takapuna Boating Club).

Saturday and Monday: Waitangi Weekend Cruise (Waitemata Trailer Yacht Squadron).

Organisations planning events on or in the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register in advance with the Auckland Regional Council on (09) 366 2000. The 24-hour response number for the ARC maritime unit is (09) 362 0397.

* Marine editorial inquiries to Robin Bailey on (09) 524 4572. PO Box 109 362 Newmarket, Auckland. Email rbailey@ihug.co.nz