Cruising Division Report

FROM THE CEO

We have all used the phrase ‘weathering the storm’ as it relates to both the boating and commercial worlds. We are now entering a new storm called Omicron, level Red, Phase Two… There is no accurate forecast on what this may bring, but we know it is likely to be disruptive, possibly destructive, and could stop us in our tracks again with the various rules, restrictions and constant changes in conditions. So we need your help to weather it successfully.

We have various plans in place should staff go into isolation and for our volunteer groups which keep our club activities running. We also appreciate your continued understanding while we navigate this over the next few weeks, months or however long it lasts.

We managed to dodge a very big actual storm recently with a cyclone looming down on our annual night race to Kawau and 36° Brokers Squadron Weekend. It gave us enough space, however, for a pretty good fleet to pound their way to Kawau on the Friday night and then have a nice downhill run home on the Saturday.

It was to be followed with what was to be a very unique, well planned on-water party that I assumed might also end up as a big raft-up! But we are used to changing plans quickly now. We usually have a two-day pack-in for this event and were ready to deliver. But, when the forecast looked too dangerous to get everyone home safely, we had to move to about Plan W and shift it all back to Westhaven HQ.

Our dedicated staff and volunteers packed it all up on the Friday and Saturday and reset for what was a great night for those who attended. On cue Sunday morning the 65+ knot winds arrived and, while many people stayed onboard their yachts as planned, they were glad to be tied up safely in Westhaven. Monday was stunning!

Kawau is a really important asset to the club and will be a continued focus over the next few years as we complete the resource consent process for the Boat Shed Training Centre, continue the native planting programme and undertake further maintenance and improvements to Lidgard House and KBC.

We have had an excellent relationship with the past few committees of KBC and have recently completed the renewal process of their lease issuing a 10+10+10 lease for the premises. This is firmly on the basis it operates under the same principles, hours and services stipulated in the initial lease since 2014, so we can all continue to enjoy this club asset.

The Hauraki Gulf Forum has had its share of controversy over the years and there is a new proposal to change its governance structure. This may affect your enjoyment of this resource at some stage, so make sure you have your say either way on the most recent proposal from Auckland Council.

Our recent Sub-Antarctic Islands cruise to celebrate our 150th was a great success and a big thanks to Colin Carran for coming up with this concept, initiating and joining the trip. Also, thanks to Wild Earth Travel and Heritage Expeditions for delivering such a memorable experience for all those who were onboard.

As a result, we will be launching a new RNZYS travel club with more fun adventures for like-minded people – watch this space. We also thank Wild Earth Travel for the significant donation they made to the club as a result of the trip.

While the calendar year says our 150th year has finished, we still have a few things to go, the 150th Gala and the YTP Alumni Reunion being the main ones. We will deliver them no matter what the storm throws at us. We also have several other upcoming events including 36 Degrees Golf Day, PIC Ladies fishing day, CBRE City of Sails Regatta, Chef vs Chef and the Rayglass Squadron Picnic to name a few. All are possible under present restriction levels, so please support them. If we need to change the dates, then we will, as we are pretty used to that now!

The General Committee and Flags have a continued focus on America’s Cup 37 and, while it is very disappointing to see a few club members attacking their own club, we have been working closely with ETNZ to ensure that the most sensible decisions are made for the club, team, and event.

The new Committee and the management team also recently undertook a Strategic Plan review. While primarily focused on the shorter term, we also have some longer-term improvements to both the facilities, services and events planned when finances allow.

Lastly, I would like to acknowledge and thank a few key staff who are leaving us for new opportunities, or a slower pace, as well as welcoming their replacements. Kim Bond, our Membership Director, has done a fantastic job of engaging with our members over many years and will replaced internally by Nikki Harkin.

Commercial Manager Sarah Dance has joined the FIFA Women’s World Cup Sponsorship team after raising our commercial revenue, profile, and services to partners. I will be looking after the commercial elements – so please call or email me if you are interested in getting more involved in the club, as we have many options available (large or small).

Straight out of school Catriona Stanton worked her way up through the F&B ranks and into management of the department and has been an essential member of that team. She is heading into a larger role, and we look forward to still seeing her on the other side of the bar as an active club sailor. In her place, Cameron Lawless joins us from a similar role at the Royal Auckland Golf Club.

So, the storm is not quite over yet, but we will weather it. Thank you to all members for helping us navigate this safely. Hayden Porter, CEO

Whitehaven Motor Yachts Harbour Classic 40

PIC Insurance Brokers Cruising and Motor Yacht Series

‘Best Kept Secret of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron’

Two images reveal our intrepid RNZYS members cruising at opposite extremes of the country over the summer.

The group above were exploring the Sub Antarctic islands as one of the concluding events on the busy calendar marking the 150th anniversary of the RNZYS.

Their expedition included close encounters with sealions, 70-knot winds, 6m seas, abundant birdlife, hardy hikes and intriguiing flora. See more on P32.

At the far north, up in the Bay of Islands,