New owner at helm of YOT Club Sea scouts boat resurfaces
as sailing club ‘mothership’
A
fter six years carving up a nightlife culture in Raglan, former owner Peter Coddington has handed over the reigns to new owner, Andy Meek. “It’s been one big blur of highlights seeing so much amazing live music. Seeing everybody having a good time and dancing is always a great feeling,” said Pete. During Pete’s time at the helm, the YOT club was nominated by the Music Managers' Forum as one of the top venues in the country for musicians. Hosting some big national and international acts over the years he has been instrumental in turning the YOT Club into a bit of a Raglan institution. Officially handing over the torch earlier in December, Pete received a huge send off at Sunday Sessions supported by the many DJs and musicians that he has hosted at the YOT Club over the years. New owner Andy has over 11 years experience working in the nightclub scene as owner of K Road mainstays Ink Bar and sister club, Coherent. Hosting many of the country’s up and coming artists as well as a number of international acts, Ink/Coherent has been a favourite for revellers wanting a not-quitecommercial dance sound. While still owner of Ink Bar, taking over the YOT Club was part of a lifestyle change for Andy. Having made the move from Auckland to Raglan with his family last week, things have been “pretty hectic’ with the changeover but with a better lifestyle in mind Andy hopes to
A clinker half
century-old kauri sailing boat formerly used by local sea scouts is back on the water again following a “tidyup” over the past 2-3 years by Raglan Sailing Club enthusiasts. After having its hull and interior painted and stained and a new sail fitted – work helped along by a recent fundraiser at Raglan Club - the 17-foot Wakatere was relaunched the Saturday before last at Lorenzen Bay, where it will remain over summer. “The wind picked up so it was quite a good day,” says club committee member Craig Purcell. “We had one or two teething problems with the sail and mast but got it all sorted.” He says quite a few locals will have memories of rowing or sailing the Wakatere on the harbour, and the boat will be returned to its shed
behind the sea scouts hall in Cliff Street each winter. “We’re just looking after it but meantime it’s a great asset for our club. It’s like our mothership.” Craig says the boat was delivered here back in 1959, one of two brought up to the Waikato from Wellington (the other went to Hamilton). “It’s got a tag which says Wilson Boatbuilders but we can’t find any more information,” he says. Raglan Sailing Club has been going about five years now and has 40-50 members ranging from kids to old salts in their 70s. Craig adds that club membership at $50 a year for a family and $20 for an individual is “so cheap it’s ridiculous”, especially considering that covers use of the club’s yachts and all safety equipment. “Sailing days” are at Lorenzen Bay at high tide every second Saturday. This Saturday will be the club’s last of the year. Edith Symes
Andy Meek and former owner Pete Coddington “keep the YOT Club going as a place for people to come and have a good time.” With a big lineup of events planned over the Christmas and New Year’s period Andy will be busy running the bar and settling into Raglan life. For Pete, he has “no plans except to
maybe work on the house,” and will be taking a well-deserved break over the summer. Maki Nishiyama To check out what’s on at the YOT Club over the next couple of week’s check out the gig guide on the back page of the 'Raglan Summer Holiday Guide pullout'.
Craig, left, and fellow club members Phil and Di prepare the done-up Wakatere for launch at Lorenzen Bay.
We can cater for group booking’s, live music,inside & outside seating and individual fish meals with side salad’s. For all enquiries contact Mark on 027 4935144 Raglan Fish 92 Wallis St, Raglan tel (+64 7) 825 7544 info@raglanfish.co.nz facebook.com/raglanfishshop
6 RAGLAN Chronicle