Waterline March

March 2011 Issue No 154

The Bay of Plenty & Coromandel’s own watersports news. Phone 07 578 0030

ple

ase take one

Orca encounter Breaking records

Taking titles

Andy Karr with his kingfish caught off the Ranfurly Banks. See the full story on page 29.

King of the game

02 WATERLINE

HIGH TIDES Add one hour for daylight saving

FEBRUARY 2011 The Bay of Plenty’s own boating, fishing, diving, yachting and watersports news.

PH 07-578 0030 FAX 07-571 1116 PO Box 240, Tauranga.

1 The Strand, Tauranga email: brian@thesun.co.nz

Waterline advertising & editorial deadlines Edition

Deadline April 2011

11 March May 2011

15 April June/July

27 May For advertising, call Sun Media’s specialist marine consultant Jo Dempsey 07 928 3041 email jo@thesun.co.nz Follow us on facebook www.facebook.com/Waterlinemagazine

25 26 27 28

Fr Sa Su Mo

0:27 1:24 2:23 3:22

1.9 1.8 1.7 1.7

MARCH 2011 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th

4:21 5:17 6:07 0:33 1:18 1:59 2:38 3:16 3:53 4:31 5:11 5:54 0:32 1:24 2:21 3:21 4:22 5:21 6:17 0:52 1:46 2:39 3:31 4:24 5:17 0:07 1:02 1:58 2:56 3:52 4:45

1.7 1.7 1.7 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.5 0.5 1.7 1.6 1.7 1.7 1.8 1.8 1.9 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 1.9 1.8 1.8 1.7 1.7 1.7

APRIL 2011 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su

5:34 0:04 0:48 1:30 2:09 2:47 3:26 4:05 4:47 5:31

1.7 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.5 0.5

6:29 7:26 8:25 9:25

0.3 0.3 0.4 0.5

12:46 13:41 14:39 15:38

1.9 1.8 1.7 1.6

18:56 19:52 20:50 21:50

0.2 0.3 0.4 0.4

10:25 11:22 12:14 6:54 7:37 8:18 8:56 9:33 10:09 10:45 11:23 12:04 6:41 7:33 8:31 9:32 10:33 11:32 12:29 7:12 8:05 8:58 9:49 10:41 11:33 6:11 7:06 8:03 9:02 9:59 10:53

0.5 0.5 0.4 1.7 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 2 2 2 2 2 1.9 0.3 0.4 0.4 0.5 0.5 0.5

16:38 17:34 18:26 13:01 13:45 14:25 15:03 15:39 16:16 16:53 17:33 18:16 12:50 13:42 14:40 15:44 16:47 17:49 18:47 13:24 14:17 15:08 15:59 16:49 17:40 12:26 13:20 14:16 15:15 16:12 17:07

1.6 1.6 1.7 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.4 0.4 1.7 1.6 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.8 1.9 0.1 0.1 0 0 0.1 0.2 1.8 1.7 1.7 1.6 1.6 1.6

22:49 0.4 23:43 0.4

11:44 6:21 7:04 7:44 8:23 9:01 9:39 10:17 10:57 11:40

0.5 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7

17:58 12:30 13:12 13:52 14:30 15:07 15:44 16:23 17:05 17:49

1.7 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.4

19:13 19:56 20:36 21:14 21:51 22:28 23:06 23:47

1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7

19:04 19:57 20:56 21:57 22:57 23:56

0.4 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.3 0.2

19:43 20:36 21:29 22:21 23:13

2 2 2 2 2

18:33 19:27 20:24 21:23 22:21 23:15

0.3 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.5 0.5

18:44 19:27 20:07 20:46 21:24 22:02 22:41 23:23

1.7 1.7 1.7 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.7 1.7

Tauranga tide heights in metres.

Bowentown: subtract 5 minutes from Tauranga (both HW and LW) Katikati (Kauri Point): add 30 minutes to Tauranga (both HW and LW) Whitianga: High Water subtract 2 minutes from Tauranga HW tide; Low Water add 2 minutes to Tauranga Low Water.

Every effort has been made to ensure that these times and tides are correct, no responsibility will be accepted for any inaccuracies, omissions, or misuse or misinterpretation of the values for tides and times published. Times used in the tide predictions are in New Zealand Standard Time (NZST1).

THE HARBOUR

WATERLINE 03

Changes to channel marker

The beacon was snapped off 500mm from the sea floor.

The Western Channel ‘A’ marker is temporarily replaced with a buoy following the fatal accident there on Monday February 7.

Canadian Richard Evans was killed and skipper Keith Longley of Omokoroa injured when a five metre boat collided with the marker.

The buoy and light were on site on the Monday evening, says Tauranga harbour

master Jennifer Roberts. The collision happened early afternoon.

A replacement marker will be on steel instead of wooden piles, because of cost.

“We are talking to the steel supplier about pricing up different sizes and dimensions to get a replacement,” says Jennifer.

“It is prohibitive to get hard wood back.

We’ve been using steel for a couple of years now replacing the beacons.”

Keith’s boat was impounded by police while they continue their investigation into the collision.

Damage to the marker indicates a high speed impact.

The piles were broken off about half a metre above the harbour floor. When the beacon was later brought ashore at the bridge marina travel lift dock, pieces of fibreglass remained embedded in the structure.

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EXTREME BOATS

04 WATERLINE

Finding the sweet spot

Powerboaters often talk about finding the sweet spot. It’s that cruising speed where the outboard and prop, in harmony with the boat and correct trim, give that tangible “feels good” notion.

It varies from boat to boat, but has something to do with revs and load, trim and sea conditions. It invariably is the most economic cruising speed, too, because all the elements are working in harmony.

We found that spot while test driving the latest Extreme Boats 610 hardtop out of Tauranga this month.

Haul makes difference

The latest unit has a few refinements over previous versions. The design of the hull is what Extreme say sets this hardtop apart from the many others in its class. The ride

and ‘trimability” (as Ryan of Mastertech calls it) means that it is easy to get the Extreme 610 into that perfect groove.

The trim tabs are standard; along with the indicator lights. It means serious fishers can cruise at optimum ride and handling for any conditions, any load and any speed.

Coupled with the 150 E-TEC, the Extreme was highly trim-able and willing to respond to the controls.

Fun and safe

It means this boat is not only a lot of fun; but safe and capable in those demanding situations, such as crossing bars, about which the guys at Thornton know a thing or two.

A boat that is capable of turning tight in tricky situations is a machine that can be skippered with confidence in extreme circumstances. It’s not just something to do to fill in the time on a boat test – there are real serious reasons why a boat needs to

behave when the wheel is whipped around.

Ask anyone who’s found themselves in the trough between a couple of gnarly mongrels; and needs to make a split second decision to turn, knowing that the boat is capable and quick to the command.

Added extras

Also new with the 610 is a wider cabin interior. It’s gained 200mm over previous versions.

They’ve added a handy glove box to the port side dashboard.

It’s the only flooding chamber hardtop on the market with CPC compliance and all boats are built to survey standards.

The cockpit is roomy and simple, with plenty storage in the side shelves and ample storage under floor.

The flooding chamber means the 610 is pretty stable at rest, yet quickly dumps the ballast on take off.

GAME KING 610

WATERLINE 05

Flying over the chop Another boast of the new model is that it can tow off the bait board rack, or the top of the hardtop, without voiding warranty.

The hardtop is engineered to take it. That’s good news for the wakeboarding fraternity.

And speaking of the bait board, it cleverly turns upside down for filleting fish.

A live bait tank is built into the port side transom, and batteries, oil tank and fuel filters are neatly at home, above water and deck level, in the transom lockers.

The windscreen curved sections are lexan, while the flat sections are safety glass.

On the road

The boat as tested rides on a single axle, braked trailer, which is great for easy manoeuvrability. But for those doing a lot of long distance towing, there’s a braked tandem version recommended. Submersible lights are standard.

On the water, the Extreme was fast and exhilarating, yet very predictable. It fair flew over the choppy harbour, 68km/h at 4800 revs.

Trolling speed of 4 knots, 500rpm

reported fuel consumption of 0.7 litres/ hour.

The Lowrance sounder/GPS interfaces with the Evinrude to provide an option for “all at a glance” dial set up, which is customised to add or delete at the skipper’s discretion.

An opinion

On our test run, we had the company of prospective boat buyer Allan who has recently sold his launch.

It was interesting to hear his summary of how the Extreme stacked up against the others he’s viewed.

He described it as the “biggest” 6m on the market and also remarked on the good handling characteristics.

He was tossing up between the E-TEC and the Suzuki four stroke option. He’d opt for the tandem axle trailer, because he does

longer distance towing.

He was interested to see that the boat could be launched/retrieved with trailer hubs just touching the water, since some of his ramp options are shallow gradients.

Overall, Allan thought it was the perfect boat for him.

To find out if it may be for you, ask Ryan Carmichael or any of the team at Mastertech, The Lakes in Tauranga.

New model 610 Hardtop

A great range of Extreme boats in stock now

60 Whiore Avenue, The Lakes, Tauranga Ph: (07) 579 4240 Fax: (07) 578 2632 Mob: 0274 886 782 Email sales@mastertech.co.nz Website www.mastertech.co.nz

BOP REGIONAL COUNCIL

06 WATERLINE

Ten top tips for towing The Harbour Master’s team observed a lot of towing on the Tauranga harbour this summer.

A lot of it was due to a lack of engine maintenance resulting in outboards that were hard to start. Some was due to carelessness, overlooking that vital ingredient – sufficient fuel. Boats broken down in the shipping channels this summer put both themselves and their rescuers in danger of being run down by a big ship.

Towing safely takes the right equipment and a good bit of know-how. You shouldn’t put your own crew and boat in potential danger if you don’t have to.

But if you really have to tow someone, here are our ten top tips to help you tow safely.

towing them away from the rocks, then offer them a tow without delay. In fact, if you’re the only boat in the area, it’s your obligation to assist.

If a boat is swamped or sinking, you should also be prepared to take her crew aboard. This can be a dangerous operation

Tip No.2

Coming alongside another boat in rough seas is extremely dangerous. The best way to attach a tow line, if possible, is to get yourself upwind and throw a light line to the other boat. Attach the light line to a sturdy rope and get them to pull the light line in until they come to the heavy line, which they can then secure onto their boat.

Tip No.3

Tip No.1

Don’t tow, that is, unless you absolutely have to. Call the Coastguard instead.

Coastguard personnel are trained to tow vessels and they practise towing regularly.

So, do you know how to contact your nearest Coastguard unit?

Of course, if a boat or people are in immediate danger and you can help by

will most likely cover you if you’re rescuing someone in distress, but may not cover you if you’re towing. It would pay to check your own insurance policy.

Coastguard Waihi Beach towing a boat past Pilot Bay. and should be done only when absolutely necessary. Not only can people easily fall into the water, but they can also be crushed between the two boats.

Please be aware that your insurance policy

Attach the tow line as far forward as possible on the boat you’re towing. The attachment point needs to be strong as there can be a heavy loading on the towline at times. This will help the boat to tow in a straight line.

On the tow boat, tow from the centreline if you have a cleat there. However, most boats only have a cleat on each side of the transom, so make a bridle or V of rope from each corner cleat and attach the

HARBOURMASTER

WATERLINE 07

Tricky towing

Rope around propeller. towline to the bottom of the V. Note that the further forward you can tow from, the better your boat will steer.

Tip No.4

Watch your propeller. Don’t just throw your tow line overboard as you get underway; it’s too easy to wrap it around your propeller. If possible, assign one crew member to the job of slowly feeding out the towline as you move away and picking up all slack line out of the water if the towline comes loose.

Tip No.5

Use plenty of line. A long line acts as a shock absorber and helps to avoid snatching and wrenching. For a long-distance tow, consider attaching a weight such

as an anchor or chain to the middle of the tow line to increase the line’s shock absorbing ability. Start towing slowly and try to take up the weight gently so as to avoid snatching which could break the towline.

Tip No.6

Guard against chafe. A towline can chafe right through surprisingly quickly if it passes over anything sharp. Wrap a rag around the towline where it passes through any fairleads or where it can rub against any part of the boat, especially where it passes over the bow fairlead.

Tip No.7

Work out how you’re going to communicate with the other boat. Agree on a VHF channel or swap cell phone numbers if you’re in range. If all else fails, agree on a few simple hand signals.

Tip No.8

Leave the outboard motor down on the

vessel being towed. This will help the boat to tow in a straight line, reducing the amount of sheering from side to side and also reducing the loading on the towline as the towed boat jerks from side to side.

Getting the crew to sit near the back of the towed boat will also help it to tow straighter.

Tip No.9

Keep a sharp knife handy. You should always be ready to cut the tow loose. If the boat you’re towing starts to sink, you don’t want to put your own boat and crew in danger.

Tip No.10

Wear a life jacket. Towing is a potentially dangerous activity and is often undertaken in unfavourable conditions. Everybody on both boats should be wearing a life jacket throughout the operation.

But if at all possible, don’t tow. Call the Coastguard instead.

Captain Jennifer Roberts – Harbour Master – Western Bay of Plenty

CLEAN UP

08 WATERLINE

Underwater clean up for Pilot Bay An underwater clean up is planned for Sunday 6 March at Salisbury Wharf and Pilot Bay. The Mount Maunganui Underwater Club’s cleanup is part of Seaweek, a national series of events where New Zealanders get together to celebrate the sea.

Seaweek is about exciting and inspiring all New Zealanders to renew their connection with the sea.

It’s not just for children or those involved with formal education – it’s a time to get to know our ocean, its habits, characteristics and inhabitants.

Last year the club’s Seaweek cleanup recovered over four tonnes of junk and highlighted that we should learn to look after our marine environment and that we should not treat it as a dumping ground. Amongst the debris were tyres, bottles, fishing gear, railway sleepers, shoes along with a variety of metals and plastics. The water around the Pilot Bay may look murky but it does hold many interesting marine inhabitants such as seahorses, nudibranchs, moray eels, stargazers and stingrays to name but a few. Any divers or non divers who are interested in helping should contact the organiser Shane Wasik on shane.wasik@btinternet. com. Meet at 9am at Salisbury Wharf.

Some of the junk recovered from last year’s Seaweek clean up.

‘For that special function afloat’

0800 LUVBOAT www.luvboat.co.nz natalie@luvboat.co.nz

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For that special experience

WATERLINE

WATERLINE 09

Waterline online This issue of Waterline magazine is the first to be available live online.

The jewel in the crown of the Sun Media stable of publications can be viewed on the Sunlive website, www.sunlive.co.nz Go to ‘publications’ and click on the title.

Waterline Magazine is the original Sun Media publication, bringing news, views, club reports and comments on the recreational marine scene since it was first printed fifteen years ago in 1995.

Waterline has proved a survivor in the volatile recreational marine market, with an estimated 12,000 readers today.

Most of those readers are in and about Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty and Coromandel, but Waterline is also keenly read on more distant horizons.

By going online, Waterline is also becoming a better medium for advertising with businesses able to have their adverts in print and on the internet.

While reading the magazine online, people are able to click on the adverts and be taken to the website of the advertiser.

By Andrew Campbell

Waterline magazine, now available live online.

TYPBC NEWS

10 WATERLINE

Charging to the far north CLUB NEWS

Inspired by the article ‘Exodus North’ by Bill Mansbridge in December Boating NZ, we made this Plan A for our 2 week cruise away in Fully Charged.

Tauranga Yacht & Power Boat Club

TYPBC Women on Water

Omokoroa Boat Club

Mt Maunganui Yacht Club

Tauranga Marine Industry Association

We lost the Saturday due to Cyclone Wilma and set off Sunday mid-morning. As usual when sailing to the Mercs, we got a bit of everything, blasting along at 19 knots, good easy sailing, calms at Tairua and finally reefed down at Hot Water Beach and loping along at 12-14 knots hard on the wind and into The Cove.

Monday it blew hard from the north so we stayed put – read books and snoozed the day away. I don’t know about you, but we are always shattered by the time we get away on holiday, so this lay day helped to refresh and renew our energy and enthusiasm.

Tuesday we headed straight up the Colville Channel and once abreast of Fitzroy, made our decision to head north, rather than Plan B, which was to hang out at The Barrier.

What is it with our coastline; you can be sailing along beauty, then run completely out of wind. Twice in the open water we motored to the next wind line, up to 2 miles away, then off we would go again. All up, it was a brilliant days sailing, romped through 87 miles ending with a good burst of 18 knots into Tutakaka, where we anchored by 1800hrs.

Tutakaka to the Bay of Islands with a stiff beat around Cape Brett (this Cape is like a toll gate, it always makes you pay to round it!). We headed into a very sheltered anchorage – Waiweipuke Bay, Moturua Island – one that we hadn’t discovered on previous trips. Magic place, went ashore for a walk, then a swim before dinner.

Exploring new places

WATERLINE 11

...continued

On to Whangaroa Thursday morning, admiring the huge homes and resorts high on the cliffs just north of the Bay of Islands. Light winds through the Cavalli Islands and on round to Whangaroa. This is a harbour you would never know existed if the chart didn’t say so, as the entrance is narrow and overlaps, with the country steep right to the water’s edge. Once inside – what a magical place! It is deep and fiord like with bush coming right down to the water on steep hillsides. Several arms or fingers reaching right and left, all with good anchorages and very sheltered. This is a trailer yachts paradise. There is a 100-berth marina at Whangaroa itself (think Maketu for the size – add a Hotel, Game Fishing Club and one General Store, with

lookout spots and the relics of the old whaling station with a fresh water stream. About 6 times the size of SE Bay at Mayor and very similar in many respects.

Tutukaka was out next port of call, where we topped up our fuel and water and prepared for an early departure to Fitzroy at Great Barrier.

We stayed at Gt. Barrier for 3 days, fishing, tramping and socialising on Duty Free with Doug, Mike Batchelor and Mark. Mike had prepared a very nice lunch

very helpful and friendly staff ). There is diesel, but no petrol, however the local store will take your tank to Kaeo and return it full next morning by 9.30am.

On the other side of the harbour is Totara North, which boasts a commercial fishing wharf and a cluster of houses. 20 minutes walk inland on the only road is the delightful Gum Diggers Bar - bar meals also available and the locals came for take-aways.

One of the locals we struck up a conversation with said they didn’t like it across at Whangaroa as it was too busy and too commercial (think Maketu again)!

We also had the pleasure of meeting Bill Mansbridge on Exodus.

Friday, we climbed St Pauls Rock for the spectacular 360 views of this hide-away harbour. Jimmy McCracken arrived in Johanna having sailed up from Tauranga single-handed. We enjoyed his company that evening over nibbles and couple of cold beers. We had both been finding it strange that as you head further up the coast of NZ in this area, you are actually travelling west – it’s a queer feeling – just feels wrong!

We headed off early next day to the quaint fishing port of Mangonui 19 miles away - north, west, and south into the SE corner of Doubtless Bay, where we entered another beautiful harbour. Famous for having NZ’s top Fish n’Chip shop this had to be our destination for lunch. There were a few arty shops also that Rose enjoyed. We departed mid afternoon, sailing 29 miles back to the Cavalli Islands anchoring in Horseshoe Bay, which was like a millpond. A beautiful red sunset to go with a little red wine, perfect!

Back down to coast motoring under auto helm to Whangamumu Harbour – 10 miles south of Cape Brett. Again a narrow indistinct entrance that takes you into another wonderland -- we fell in love with this place. No road access, good bush walks and

and our only drizzly afternoon was very pleasantly spent wining and dining in their excellent company. They had also been exploring up north, getting as far as Houhora and had arrived in to Fitzroy from the Poor Knights via the Mokohinau Islands.

Friday a soft sail uphill in light winds to The Mercs where a wind warning of a strong easterly was forecast to come in that night with rough seas easing Saturday and swinging NE. No, it didn’t swing Saturday but did ease late in the day from the 33 knots of the morning. We stayed put.

We had a pleasant last leg home Sunday.

A very enjoyable holiday – a bit like a tramping holiday with where you move on most days, then a nice relax at the Barrier. We covered 520 nautical miles in total. As a holiday it rates highly for both of us and is enjoyable for its memories of new places explored and people met and an area we will most certainly visit again.

A new piece of essential cruising gear was added to Fully Charged this year. A $10 – 2 litre garden sprayer for hot showers after swimming. Brilliant !!!

By Roger Clark

TAURANGA YACHT & POWERBOAT CLUB NEWS

TYPBC NEWS

TYPBC NEWS

12 WATERLINE TYPBC NEWS

Wind sorts the winners TYPBC was represented by seven sailors at the 2011 Laser Nationals held at Torbay.

The four day event attracted 183 entries in five fleets from seven different countries including Israel, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, Noumea and Cook Islands. The weather, like the entries, was a mixed bag and at times a headache for PRO Ian Clouston.

Day 1 had 5 -10 knots from the south but shifting 45° at random.

Day 2 was cancelled due to high winds and the first race on day 3 didn’t get under way until 5pm when the wind had dropped to 25 knots (still with regular 30knot gusts) from the south-west. The reach was so fast the sailors were unable to see because of the spray. They raised their heads only occasionally to see where the gybe mark was. Unsurprisingly there were many capsizes, but the those who didn’t showed boat handling skills that would be difficult to better anywhere in the world.

A Laser downwind is more slippery than a well greased banana skin. The wind had dropped to 15 knots for the third and

final race for the day with sailors not getting off the water before 8:30 pm. Three races were held on day 4 in 5 – 10 knots southerly.

The final race in the Men’s Open fleet was the deciding race for the championship and Tauranga’s Sam Meech was

Molly Meech rounding the gybe mark. perhaps unlucky not to win. Up to the final beat to the finish, Sam had put enough boats between himself and top contender for the Laser Olympic spot, Andrew Murdoch, to secure the National title. But Murdoch gained two places to draw equal on points with Meech only to take the title on countback. Even so, Sam, is thrilled that he matched it with

Murdoch, a professional sailor. Eighteen year Tom Saunders from TYPBC in his first year in a full rig also stirred the pot by taking two second places in the eight race series finishing eighth overall in the fleet of twenty seven and 2nd in the ‘Under 21’ . Sam Meech being the winner of the ‘Under 21’ Molly Meech was 1st in the Radial female youth section finishing 18th overall in a leet of fifty one. Taking time out from her 470 Olympic campaign, Olympian Jo Aleh at 60kgs, showed how good a sailor she is in winning the Radial division outright.

In the first four places in this fleet, three were women. In his first year in this very competitive class, 15 year old Ben Caundle from TYPBC was happy to finish 25th overall.

Fresh from wining the Tauranga Cup in his P Class, TYPBC’s Trent Rippey, finished 2nd in a fleet of thirty Laser 4.7’s. Laura Hemmingway from Tauranga was the first girl and finished 5th overall. Jacob Miller, also a P Class sailor from TYPBC was 15th. Keith Inglis from Taupo was the 4.7 overall winner.

by Mark Layer

Runs like a well oiled machine How many people do you need to run a ISAF Grade 1 Olympic classes regatta like Sail Auckland?

Hosted by Takapuna Boating Club.

Feb 3,4,5,& 6?

13/11/08 2:06:07 p.m.

OSE_wl_advert_New Logo.pdf

There were four courses with ten classes over four days comprising of 11 races. 15 countries were represented.

C

M

Y

Answer: Around 90 people.

On the water: The PRO (Principal Race Officer) plus a RO and team for each course. Each course had a Start/Finish Pin boat with a crew of 4, Two mark laying boats with a crew of 3 and 2-3 rescue boats with a crew of 2.

Off the water: Ramp team of 6 plus launching and retrieving RM boats and refueling them Beach/Club team running the shore base including monitoring the ‘sign on’ and ‘sign off ’ sheets and sailors coming ashore. And a team providing lunches for the volunteers The regatta ran like a well oiled machine. Each RO held a briefing for his team at 0900 each day. The PRO (John Parish) monitored 4 radios for each of the courses as they were on different channels.

by Mark Layer

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

40c Mirrielees Rd PO Box 14015 Tauranga New Zealand

Tel +64 (7) 927 9172 Fax +64 (7) 927 9172

TYPBC NEWS

WATERLINE 13

TYPBC sailors take 5 podium places at ‘Sail Auckland.

Tauranga was represented by seven sailors, with Sam Meech (Laser), Molly Meech (Laser Radial) and Sven Pedersen (8.5 Board) winning their age group categories • 470 class. Jason Saunders (and Paul Snow-Hansen, Wakatere) 3rd , Luke Stevenson and Sam Bullock 9th. 13 in the fleet • 420 class. Oscar Rorvik (and Sam McKay, Napier) 2nd. 8 in fleet.

• Laser. Sam Meech, 1st under 12, 8th overall. Tom Saunders 2nd under 21, 11th overall. Overall winner was Andrew Murdoch, 2nd Mike Bullot. 28 in the fleet • Laser Radial. Molly Meech, 1st female youth and 10th overall. Ben Caundle 27th. 36 in the fleet • 8.5 board. Sven Pedersen 1st male youth, 4th overall. 21 in fleet.

Jason Saunders(on trapeze) and Paul Snow-Hansen.

‘AC45’ helmed by Sir Russell Coutts sailed through the fleets each day on their way to do their training. On day one, as Ben Caundle was righting his Laser after a capsize, it sailed 5 -10 metres from the transom and Russell Coutts gave him a wave.

On another day on the 470 course, Murray Jones, who was on the ‘AC45’, leaned out and grabbed the boom of his son’s 470.

Perfect windsurfing summer Tauranga windsurfer Sven Pedersen’s having the perfect summer.

Not only was he taken under the wing of windsurfing gold medallist Tom Ashley and spent the summer training with the big boys, but the experience has rubbed off in competition.

Sven was top youth in the Sail Auckland regatta, and fourth overall on the 8.5 sails behind senior women competitors vying for Olympic selection.

With RSX windsurfers there are two rigs, the 9.5m2 and 8.5m2.

The men sail the 9.5 and the youths and women sail the 8.5. The 8.5s all race together. The 9.5 have a separate race.

“Sven was lucky enough to be invited by Tom to train with him over the summer, and he gave him a 9.5 sail to train with,” says Sven’s dad Stuart.

“Sven was the only one of the youths that had a chance to do that, and when you are 17 it’s a thrill to be able to sail with the Olympic gold medallist.

“It was a generous invitation by Tom and it really helped. Sven was getting a lot of time on the water with some really skilled guys, and that paid off when it came to sail Auckland.

“He was back down to an 8.5 sail for that because he was still a youth, but it meant that he won every race. He was the first youth over the line in every race, nine out of nine.”

He was beaten overall by three of the senior women going for Olympic selection for 2012.”

He came out of Tom’s regime with better fitness and better board handling, says Stuart.

“He was able to point higher and keep his speed up, he was good

on gybing, tacking and all the stuff they have to do.

“It makes a bigger difference on the board than it does on the boat, you can lose a lot of speed. If you are planing and do a gybe and fall off the plane, you have got to get going again.

That can cost you like, 30 metres. Just like that.

“The top speeds on the boards are so high compared with when they are off the plane.

“He learned a bit of tactics and stuff as well from some of the older guys and that was basically how it went.”

The Auckland summer also paces Sven in a good position for selection for the youth worlds at the Nationals also being held in Auckland.

He comes out of Sail Auckland with a huge points advantage over the next youth RSX sailor.

Sven will be competing in Tauranga on March 12/13 and the RSX North Island Nationals.

TYPBC NEWS

Tauranga takes the prizes

MMYC NEWS

14 WATERLINE MMYC NEWS

Taking the title, again Twenty nine years after sailing in his first Noelex 25 nationals in 1982, Tauranga yachtsman Derek Dumbar has scooped his third national title in four years.

Dumbar and his crew, Queenstown brothers Nigel and Derek Brown, outsailed the rest of the 17-boat field off Napier with two wins, two seconds and two thirds.

Dumbar took the title ahead of Napier yacht Mykonos skippered by Craig Derek Dumbar, Derek Brown and Nigel Brown.

Coulam and Gisborne yacht Citrine skippered by Peter Millar in some of the Sailing this year was seriously restricted closest racing of the regatta's 30-year by the rough conditions generated by history Cyclone Wilma. Only six of the seven The nine-race series was reduced to races counted in the final points tally. seven races because of Cyclone Wilma but Racing began last Thursday in light, Dumbar's two wins, two seconds and two variable winds but the racing the followthirds gave the crew their third title out ing day was in a medium northerly winds of the last four national championships in with a good swell and chop. By Saturday Dumbar's yacht Que Sera Sera. the wind had risen to storm force and was Dumbar and the Brown brothers have gusting to 51 knots (94kph). Racing was been sailing together for nearly 35 years abandoned. since they met at Te Anau in 1976 when Dumbar said although the final points they were all sailing javelins. tally comfortably gave him the title, racing

could not have been closer.

"In race six Mykonos was one second ahead of us when we crossed the line. It was as close as it gets," said Dumbar.

Dumbar and the Brown brothers were in Que Sera Sera when they won the national title in Taupo in 2008 and in Lyttelton last year. They were second in Rotorua in 2009.

Nigel Brown sailed in the first Noelex 25 nationals in 1981 and Dumbar and Nigel Brown began sailing together at the second nationals in 1982.

Other notable winners in the last 30 years included Don Baverstock, Brad Butterworth, Tom Dodson and Doug Elder.

The Noelex 25 yachts are among the most popular trailer sailer class in the country. They were designed and initially built in New Zealand but are now made in Australia.

Results: Que Sera Sera (skipper Derek Dumbar, Tauranga) 12 points, 1; Mykonos (Craig Coulam, Napier) 19 points, 2: Citrine (Peter Millar, Gisborne) 20 points, 3; Blue Print (Barry Finlayson, Napier) 22 points, 4; Outnumbered (Bob Coultas, Lyttelton) 22 points, 5.

MMYC NEWS

WATERLINE 15

Yachting……….a great sport. It teaches us all sorts of disciplines, such as flexibility.

Each year, the Mount Maunganui Yacht Club holds the Peter Burgess Memorial Race. In the past it has been an 8 hour endurance race around the harbour but this year, the Club committee opted for a weekend of racing at Mayor Island on Anniversary weekend. If you’ll recall, the tail of a cyclone blew threw on Friday and Saturday keeping all yachts tied up and bouncing around on their moorings. The weekend was cancelled and replaced by a Sunday Race to Omokoroa and back.

Flexible yachties

They’re a flexible lot of yachties at the Mount Maunganui Yacht Club and it doesn’t matter if they’re sailing to Whangamata, Mayor Island or just up to Omokoroa. It doesn’t matter if there are 15 boats or 4 boats, there’s always friendly rivalry and it’s ALWAYS a race…..and so 4 boats set off for Omokoroa on Sunday 30 January, instead of Mayor Island.

Windarra had her usual core crew of Iain (not an apprentice anymore), Cherie (sporting a sore head and without a bacon’n’egg pie), Carol (with sailing withdrawals) and Skipper Wil (who’d live on Windarra if he could).

Pre race

A pre race chat with the skipper of Hanse Free (Arthur), revealed that they were entering the race but only out for a casual sail with some friends onboard. This proved to be a false statement.

Season Ticket will be a boat to watch in the future. Lyn and John are back with their new baby and they gave us a glimpse of her capabilities during the race.

Stu and Lesley joined the challenge in Gannet and so the race began outside MOSC. The boats all stayed within shouting distance until Banks Buoy then the tacticians aboard came into play. Hanse Free got off to a good start holding the lead for a short time but patience paid off for Windarra and she slowly but very convincingly stole the lead causing Arthur much neck pain looking back every 30 seconds. Windarra maintained her lead with some slick tacking and passed between the moored boats at Omokoroa…….which included supporters of the club that weren’t up for the challenge!

Downward leg

The downward leg was always going to be a challenge for Windarra so the call was made to hoist the kite and maintain the lead. The foredeck crew worked in unison and the kite made its exit from the bag and into a beautiful set. And then it happened.

The unthinkable! In slow motion, the head of the kite gently unclipped itself from the halyard and cascaded its way down into the water……….and under the hull.

The feeling of excitement that must have passed over the Hanse Free crew, can only be imagined. The whites of Arthur’s eyes were seen as Hanse Free advanced on to Windarra’s stern.

Windarra’s crew worked feverishly to retrieve the kite but the game was over. Hanse Free passed by with her crew casually passing around home baking.

With the kite onboard and the stern of Hanse Free ahead, Windarra’s next problem was making it’s way from behind.

Season Ticket was also advancing. There was no time to think about the halyard stuck up the mast, so Windarra’s crew re hoisted the genoa and carried on. Hanse Free “casually” crossed

Hanse Free, winner of the Peter Burgess Challenge. the finish line 1st while Windarra fought hard to retain 2nd with Season Ticket 3 seconds behind her.

The crew of Gannet suffered equipment malfunctions but complete the race anyway. Thanks to all those skippers and their crews for a great day.

The rest of the summer

There is not much of the summer racing season left for MMYC so mark these dates on your calendar.

Monday Night Series resumes: 7 March 21 March 4 April 18 April

Other events

12 March - Poker Run 22 – 24 April – Easter Weekend Cruise

MMYC NEWS

Friendly rivalry at the club

OBC NEWS

16 WATERLINE OMOKOROA BOAT CLUB NEWS

Running down the harbour Clear skies and a wind in excess of the 10kt forecast greeted the Club's sailing division which consisted of Philip Olds and Jamima, J, (Noelex 22) John Budden and Piccaninny,P, (Tasman 20) and Lloyd and Lynn Berendt with Culprit, C, a H28 Keeler, welcome to the sailing activity!

The general wind was from the South West, tide was low at about 11.30 to 12.00 so the initial race was set from the Club line to D at Omokoroa Point then to G off Motuhoa / Matakana Channel then back to D and the line.

Start was at about 11.16 and Jamima took a flyer and upped her kite closely followed by Piccaninny with no Kite and Culprit in third spot.

The Breeze took it to die down at the start but then piped up as we cleared D. The kite was still up on Jamima and off she went with the second and third yachts in her wake.

The tide was dead low at the turn so with due care we turned in the channel and tacked home. At D, J was first around but P was closing fast with Culprit bring up her own breeze.

The first race was Jamima's with Piccaninny second and Culprit third.

We were then joined by the Mount Maunganui Yacht Club (most were to attend the Jam session at the Club) and a keeler keen to try the upper harbour mud banks.

We decided the re run the first race even though we had a breeze around the 10 kt (gusting 15 to 20)

All four got away to a better start but the slippery Noelex still lead out , never to be headed but using a new blue kite!!

At D, J was off and away closely followed by Invincible and P with Culprit in there too.

The run down harbour against a making tide was helped by the fresh breeze and some interesting gusts!!

At the turn J was away with Second place going to Invincible and P and C third and fourth. Now the breeze freshened and the keelers were in hot pursuit but Jamima made it two out of two with out Mt Visitors second P third and C fourth.

Good sailing on the best of the day thanks for turning out!!

John Budden

Junior Fleet

The second “Learn to Sail” session for the year was held on Saturday morning of the 5 February 2011.

School must be back from the holiday season as around 20 budding yachties turned up. This meant all the club boats were on the water.

The six Optimists, the Vikings and the Sunbursts.

We even had some adults learning the art of sailing. Regrettably” Hughie” was not so kind to the fleet.

The wind was from zero to a maximum of two knots.

This is not the ideal conditions to teach beginners how to yet a craft from position A to Point B but they all did rather well and managed to complete the figure of 8 course set in the Bay. It is great to see the parents getting in behind the pupils and helping on the patrol boats and storing gear before heading home. Thank you all.

Alan R

Length Feet

Total $ Cost

Length Feet

Total $ Cost

Length Feet

Total $ Cost

27

847

37

1533

46

2179

28

910

38

1606

47

2265

29

980

39

1668

48

2353

30

1048

40

1731

49

2450

31

1124

41

1798

50

2550

32

1194

42

1869

51

2655

33

1260

Sternlegs

185

52

2725

34

1324

43

1954

53

2830

35

1387

44

2023

54

2850

36

1459

45

2096

55

2970

55+

POA

Saildrives

60

TAURANGA BOAT SALES

WATERLINE 17

STEBER International

www.taurangaboatsales.co.nz View All Our Listings Online

Let’s go fishing!

SOLE AGENCY

Don Senior 13.5 A Stunning example of This Well Known Vessel $550,000 Brett Eaton 0274 592 982

PrESENt ALL OffErS

AzimuT 36 new boat coming! must be sold!

Present Offers Motivated Vendor Brian Kent 021 644 091

SOLE AGENCY

LeiLAni has been carefully restored and presents as a true classic. $295,000 Brian Kent 021 644 091

riVierA 35 BLueWATer A Strong Fishing machine...

Look no Further! $205,000.

Rod Horne 027 255 0117

mArKLine 1250 Has Been Very Well Cared For By only one owner $295,000 Brett Eaton 0274 592 982

SOLE AGENCY

BerTrAm 31 For the serious fisherman who appreciates style and quality! $195,000 Brett Eaton 0274 592 982

STeBer 36 Great Design, Great Boat, Great Price...Get in Quick! $195,000 Brett Eaton 0274 592 982

SOLE AGENCY

SeASWirL STriPer FiSH 2101 Walk Around and Voyager Tandem Braked Trailer. $89,000 Ian Thomas 0274 976 010

SOLE AGENCY

roGer HiLL 8.3m ALLoy CATAmArAn Stable late model pleasure fishing catamaran $99,000 Ian Thomas 0274 976 010

PrESENt ALL OffErS

PeLin DominATor Proven Game Fishing Vessel with enough room For everyone! $295,000 Ian Thomas 0274 976 010

www.taurangaboatsales.co.nz View All Our Listings Online Brian Kent Owner/Manager 021 644 091

Bridget Cooper Advertising/ Marketing

Ian Thomas Broker 0274 976 101

Brett Eaton Broker 0274 592 982

Two locations to serve you: Sulphur Point Marina Next to Burnsco 07 571 8443

Tauranga Bridge Marina Mount Maunganui 07 575 0512

thecrew@taurangaboatsales.co.nz

Rod Horne Broker 027 255 0117 WL1012tbTgaboat

18 WATERLINE

call

CLASSI Finance for all marine finance 07-574 0002 or 0274 435 524 available 7 days

FOR SALE

VIStacRaFt 14 - 14.2ft Fiberglass, mariner 40hp, Johnson 6hp aux, new paint, ski pole, high pole, new rod holders & cleats. Very tidy and economical boat. Great for harbour fishing and skiing/wakeboarding. $5500 ono. Don 021 298 6647 PeLIN FOR SaLe - 28’, professionally built, reconditioned Nissan ED 33 110HP diesel engine, mint condition. Comes with dinghy and outboard. $49,000. Ph 07 579 4128 or 027 291 2929.

StaRLING FOR SaLe - “CARPE DIEM” 1130, Professionally built & launched oct 1994, Built on same jig as “Helter Skelter” (1131), This yacht and fittings are in excellent condition Has been compliant with Bow Jig. Extras include Aluminium Beach Trolley, Road Cover and Spare Mast. Asking Price $3,900.00. Telephone 021 120 7060.

Yacht FOR SaLe - 7mtr catalina yacht trailer sailor. Trailer warranted, registered and ready for the road. Pop top cabin, sleeps four, dual batteries, VHF & CB radios, stereo system. Price $17,500 neg. Ph (07) 542 3102 or 027 628 7900.

GaNLeY tImeRIDeR, 38 ft Steel Sloop. Proven offshore yacht. Well maintained & equipped. Excellent condition. Professionally built 1992. Sleeps 6-7. Interior attractive light woodgrain. Large water & diesel tanks, 50hp Nissan engine, Fleming windsteering. $189,000 ph (07) 8627455 or email srlobb007@hotmail.com

FOLDING PROP - briski, 16 x 12. 25mm shaft. Right handed NZ. $500 ono. Very good condition. Ph 021 243 5555 OmOkOROa mOORING - Prime location opposite Boat Club. Suitable for up to 40ft boat $8000. Recently surveyed - September 2010. Ph 548 2314.

QuaRteR ShaRe IN VINDex 10 metRe LauNch - Shaft drive, 180 hp Ford Diesel Turbo, Sleeps 6, two showers, 3 steering stations cruises 10-12 kts. This syndicate has been operating successfully for 6yrs. A great opportunity to enjoy the pleasures a launch offers whilst sharing the costs. Based at Tauranga Bridge Marina. Price $20,000 Ph 548 2314.

Yacht - Moonraker 26ft keeler. 5 sails, 4 stroke vovlo 2 cyl inboard motor.

Fully serviced. Starts every time. Hummingbird depth sounder, marine radio, radio cassette, toilet, gully, includes 2 burner stove. 6 berth. 20l water tank, 20l fuel tank, last slip March 2010. Draft 4’6”, 8’ 2” beam. 2m fibreglass dinghy. $12000. 07 548 2114 or 027 548 2114. mOORING - Te Puna Estuary. Ph Dave Watson 552 6662.

OutBOaRD mOtOR - Honda 9.9hp 4 stroke 2000 model low hours.

Recently serviced new plugs, gear and crancase oil, spark plugs and impeller. $2000 ono. Phone Jim 5422036. haRtLeY tS18 - ‘Antares’ is in really good condition. Trailer has WOF. She has been beautifully built inside and out with painted wood interior and can sleep up to 4 people. Comes with Honda 5HP outboard motor with stand for easy storage. Drop keel makes her a great family boat for going to places in and around the harbour. She has had new aluminium mast and rigging by Mike McCormack and new winch and guide bars added to trailer, for easy launch and retrieval. All ready to go for 2011. Asking price $4,500 ono.

Phone Ian Gray 07 578 5022 or 027 572 9439. maRINa BeRth - 12m, Bridge marina G25. Good location with plenty of parking. With mooring lines and corner wheel. Currently rented month to month. Must sell so present reasonable offer. $50,000 inc. Phone Hm 5767748 4.95 aLuINIum maSt aND SaIL - plus centre board, rudder and anchor.

All in V.G. condition. Open to reasonable offers. Please ring 576 0294 (has answer phone). mOORING - C6 The Strand, Town Reach, Tauranga, new survey. Upto 10.5m. $1000 spent on survey. $4000 ono. Contact 07 307 9097 or 027 307 9009.

TO RENT

SteeL LauNch - 30ft x 10ft. 1993? In good order. $48,000. View B46 Sulphur Point Marina. Marina berth also available. Ph 0276209712 or 07 8434392. catamaRaN - 3yr old 11.4 mtr, Roger Simpson, Wildside, Twin 10 hp Yanmar, Diesels. 3 Queen, Size Double berth. Galley. Nav Station, Heads.

Saloon. Usual instruments. Ph 07 866 5157 or email cox.wall@xtra.co.nz.

LIDGaRD 7.9m - Launched approximately 1956. Kauri planked, powered by 60hp nissan diesel, 7.5 knots cuise, economical at 5 ltrs/hr cruising Accommodation for 2, toilet, gas cooker, game rigged. Electronics include VHF, GPS, chartplotter, depthsounder. Vessel is in sound condition. 027 447 2393.

WateR PumP - 25PSI, Sureflow. As New $120. Ph 0274 333 220.

BOat aND SuLPhuR POINt maRINa BeRth - PRICE REDUCED. 26ft hartley sedan launch. View boat and full details at berth B43, Sulphur Point. Boat $23,000 ono. 8 metre marina berth $16,036 with launch. Has cruised and fished to Mayor, the Mercs and Great Barrier. Ready to go again.

Passed insurance survey December 2010. Ph 07 543 4099 or 027 239 6445 maIN SaIL - 7.5oz, hoist 43’ 7”, foot 14’ 9”, 5 reaths, 5 7/8 slides, very good condition. $400 ono. Ph 021 243 5555.

mOORING - town reach by Kestrel. Newly surveyed. Ph 578 0230 or 027 491 5616. mOORING - Waikareao Estuary. Ph 578 0230 or 027 491 5616. mOORING - Tanners Point. Excellent position, available for rent or for sale.

Ph 07 570 0333 mOORING - Omokoroa, best position. For rent or for sale. Ph 07 570 0333. mOORING to rent or buy Tanners Point. Ph 0274 915 616. mOORING - Omokoroa. Phone 021 114 739. mOORING tO LeaSe - Tanners Point. Suit launch or multihull. Long term. ph 5490091 SWING mOORING - for rent or sale at Tanners Point. Recently serviced. Ph 578 0230 or 027 491 5616.

WANTED

SWING mOORING by Tauranga Bridge marina. Long term. For 8 tonne boat. Phone 021 963 399. mOORING tO BuY - either Bridge marina area or slipway side of Pier at Omokoroa. Phone 0276 769 802.

ShaReS IN LauNch - and marina berth. 30 to 40 feet. Cash buyer, what have you? Phone Malcolm 576 6443 mOORING tO BuY - Te Puna, shallow mooring fine. email simon.ifes@ gmail.com. Phone 07 552 4694 WaNteD tO ReNt: Swing mooring for 25ft yacht, also short term marina berth. Phone/text Marc, 027 200 2316. haRtLeY 16 Fibreglass trailer sailer. Ph 07 576 0207.

DIRECTORY

WATERLINE 19

BATTERIES

FISHING & DIVING

Ph/Fax: 07 578 8056 25 Marsh Street, Tauranga 0274 894 056

Ph/Fax 07 575 9056 15 Newton St, Mount Maunganui Ph/Fax 573 4493 155 Jellicoe Street, Te Puke

Battery Warehouse

Battery Direct NZ Free delivery in NZ www.BatteryDirect.co.nz sales@batterydirect.co.nz 0800 267 468

BOAT MAINTENANCE

Big Fish Bait and Tackle Co

Blue Ocean Charters Ltd Ph 0800 224 278 www.blueocean.co.nz email: info@blueocean.co.nz

Mount Dive Shop

GemCo Ltd

15 Newton Street, Mount Maunganui Ph: 575 4418

Hutcheson Boatbuilders

MV Manutere Brett Keller Ph: 07 552 6283 0274 351 353 Email: fishingcharters@xtra.co.nz

R63 Hewletts Rd, Mount Maunganui Ph 572 2411

Ph:07-578 8312

Matamata Motor Trimmers & Upholstery Boat clears, canvas work, upholstery Ph: 07 571 4421 Cnr Mirrielees & Cross Roads, Tauranga

Mercury Bay Boatyard

Ph: 07 866 4637 Yard: 3 Moewai Rd, Whitianga Refits, repairs, painting, maintenance

Tauranga Marine Charters

INSURANCE

Tauranga Insurance Ph: 571 0405 195 Devonport Rd, Tauranga

KAYAKING

Oceanz Stainless Engineering

Canoe & Kayak BOP

BOAT SALES

Viking Kayaks

Ph:07-571 4130 30-34 Mirrielees Road, Tauranga www.southernoceanmarine.co.nz

Challenger Boats

142 Newton Road, Mount Maunganui Ph 07 575 0497

Ph:574 7415 3/5 MacDonald St, Mt Maunganui OPEN 7 DAYS 9-5pm

Specialising in fishing and recreational kayaks.

0800 529 253 www.vikingkayaks.co.nz

www.challengerboats.co.nz

MARINA

Ph 07 579 9716 email: tauranga@gulfgroup.co.nz www.gulfgroup.co.nz

Ph: 07 575 8264 Fax: 07 575 8369 VHF: Ch 73 “Bridge Marina”

Gulf Group Marine Brokers

Hutcheson Boatbuilders 07-578 8312

Mastertech Marine 60 Whiore Avenue, The Lakes, Tauriko Tauranga Ph:579 4240 www.mastertech.co.nz

Tauranga Boat Sales

Bridge Marina, Harbour Bridge Ph: 07-575 0512 www.taurangaboatsales.co.nz

CHANDLERY

Steves Marine Supplies Ph: 07 578 9593 18 Cross Road, Sulphur Point, Tauranga

DELIVERIES Ross Hislop

Ph: 07 543 1023, mob 0274 770078 Email: hislopra@xtra.co.nz

ELECTRONICS

Bay Marine Electronics Steven Gillett Ph: 07 577 0250 www.baymarineelectronics.co.nz

FINANCE

AFB Accept Finance Brokers Ph: 07 574 0002

Tauranga Bridge Marina

RIGGING

Mike McCormick

Ph: 578 3071 59 Mirrielees Rd, Tauranga

TRAILERS

Prescott Trailers

Ph 07-573 9130 29 Station Rd, Te Puke www..prescotttrailers.co.nz

Greerton Engineering Ph 541 0024 64 Maleme Street TAURANGA www.greertoneng.co.nz

CLUB CONTACTS

Mount Maunganui Yacht Club Ph: 542 0305

Omokoroa Boat Club John Budden Ph: 548 1180 Alan Roberts Ph: 579 1967

Tauranga Game Fishing Club Keith Allen Dr, Sulphur Point Tauranga Ph: 578 6203

Tauranga Marine Industry Assn.

PO Box 13303 Tauranga Ian Madden Ph: 544 7167

Tga Yacht & Power Boat Club PO Box 14352 Tauranga Ph 578 5512

MARINE RESERVES

20 WATERLINE

Check marine reserve boundaries reminder

Whilst the skipper of the vessel in this case admitted he knew that he was inside the boundary, not being aware of where the marine reserve limits are is not a good enough excuse.

Marine reserves are areas that have been set aside to preserve the sea and foreshore in its natural state so that the marine life and habitat can be studied and plants and animals (including stocks of fish) have an opportunity to replenish and be protected for future

generations. Within these reserves all marine life is protected so any fishing or removal of marine life is prohibited. People can still visit the reserves and enjoy diving, snorkelling and swimming but cannot take anything away with them.

The Te Paepae o Aotea Marine Reserve, also known as the Volkner Rocks Marine Reserve, is off the Whakatane coast and includes three rock pinnacles that are geologically linked to White Island. This marine reserve has been established for five years now and it is hoped the reserve will protect the large schools of pelagic and reef fish that enjoy the unique marine environment in this location where the oceanic and subtropical currents converge.

The vessel was caught fishing inside the marine reserve by both Department of Conservation (DOC) and Ministry of Fisheries staff, and all of occupants of the boat were found to be jig fishing. After the

judge in the Whakatane District Court handed down his decision, the DOC Gisborne-Whakatane Area Compliance Officer, Jaime Quirk said, “this is another good result for the protection of marine biodiversity, the inter-agency approach that was successful in this case will be ongoing and will undoubtedly enhance the protection of Te Paepae o Aotea Marine Reserve”.

The boundaries of marine reserves can sometimes be hard to determine when you are out at sea so it does pay to check the coordinates before you head off. To find out the outer limits of any marine reserve you plan to be fishing near to go to www. doc.govt.nz. Also all the boat ramps near to a marine reserve will have information on the reserve boundaries.

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The recent prosecution and fine handed down to a vessel accused of fishing inside the Te Paepae o Aotea Marine Reserve in Whakatane should be a reminder to all the need to be familiar with the boundaries of local marine reserves.

ORCA ENCOUNTER

WATERLINE 21

File photo.

Underwater encounters Last club trip started like any other – great boat, great company and off to Schooner Rock with lovely warm summer water to look forward to.

The trip the day before had seen orca in the harbour, and there were stories galore of lots of sightings so I was hoping, but thinking to myself “there are never any flaming orca around when I’m on the boat but maybe this time I’ll be lucky……”

Dive number 1 had good viz and lots of fish life including some big pink mao mao.

After a couple of hours of relaxing on the boat for me, and snorkelling around with speargun in hand for Brian, it was time to gear up for the second dive. Similar location, just off Schoo-ner, but conditions had changed quite a bit – viz quite murky and – for the first time ever – my drysuit was leaking! Yes, I know, middle of summer and in a drysuit – nothing but a wuss!

So anyway, there I was, cruising along on the bottom at 25 metres, thinking hmm, this isn’t much fun – I’m wet….I wonder why. Hmm, slack viz, not as much to see as on the last dive…. …..when Wow, what was that?

A HUGE black and white shape swept down past just a few metres in front of me, like a stealth bomber.

ORCA my mind screamed!

While trying to keep an eye on it as it disappeared into the gloom, I was looking around for Brian and screaming at him

BATTERY WAREHOUSE

through my reg. Eventually I grabbed his arm to make him look at me, and screaming loudly orca, and gesticulating big with my arms, he started taking some notice. He of course was thinking shark, and wondering what he’d do if it came back, but then suddenly, there is was again – just like the first time, a huge shape sweeping past in front of us – gone just as quickly as it had come, but leaving us quivering with excitement and amazement.

The rest of the dive was spent spinning around looking and hoping for some more interaction, but they were gone. Back on board, those who had stayed on top had been treated to about 7 orca sweeping past the boat, past Schooner and heading towards Plate. I would have liked to have seen them, but on reflection, I’ll trade 7 orca on the surface for one close encounter underwater any day. Certainly a day to remember and a highlight of my diving Jenny Eglinton, Mount Ocean Sports Club career.

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Everything you need including weather, tides and weekly fishing reports.

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SPINDRIFT

22 WATERLINE

From a primeval forest Spindrift's life began in the primeval kauri forest of the remote Hokianga region in New Zealand's Far North.

Her builder, Collin Reid, had two small kauri trees felled from the Waima forest and he trucked them to Kaikohe for milling.

Kauri (Agathis australis) is a premier boatbuilding timber of worldwide reputation because: It is completely free of knots; Has superb dimensional stability; Excellent woodworking qualities; Good durability and rot resistance; and looks and smell nice.

Building took place at historic Waipapa Landing, near Kerikeri, in the Bay of Islands, where New Zealand's pioneering settlement commenced.

She was completed in 1968 using traditional plank on frame construction.

The shell comprises inch-thick tanalised timber fastened by copper nails to steambent ribs of kowhai and tanekaha laid on eight inch centres.

Collin Reid added a few personal touches,

CanvasLockerWL910

such as an imperceptible “clippering” of the bow, and a hint of tumblehome in the canoe stern.

Spindrift conforms nicely to the lines of a Fifer, a famous 26 foot Scottish fishing boat

designed to carry a ton of fish a hundred miles. She weighs nearly six tonnes on the Travelift and is powered by a Yanmar QM20.

The Reids cruised Spindrift as far as Great Barrier Island and up and down the rugged Northland coast for a number of years before embarking on another boatbuilding project.

After that she grew weed and mussels, abandoned on a mooring in Whangarei for many years.

Her next owner shortened the cabin, enlarging the cockpit, and built a one-ton ice hold and hydraulic line hauler for longlining and crayfishing.

He also added the wheelhouse and a huge fuel tank.

Then she was bought by three men in Tauranga who went voyaging and fishing around the Bay of Plenty.

Around 1994 the boat was bought by the Whangamata owner, Bill Radford, and in 1998 by my wife and I. We reluctantly parted with her in 2008 after ten years of exploring and overnighting all round Tauranga Harbour.

Spindrift was designed by a Dutch naval architect in Holland. Collin Reid had always been impressed by the Scottish Fifers and he posted the designer drawings and photographs to work from.

“He sent me the table of offsets and when I lofted her out she was absolutely spot

3a Landscape Road Tauranga Email: w.oldham@clear.net.nz

Tel: 07 576 3009 Fax: 07 576 3092 Mobile: 027 627 5448

on,'' Collin said. ``She was exactly what I wanted!''

A retired merchant seaman, Collin Reid had built boats all of his life, mostly traditional designs in wood: everything from sailing dinghies to ocean-goers.

Why a Fifer?

“I'd spent nine years at sea with the Union Line, throughout the Pacific,” he said. “Most of it involved open roadsteads, and the lighters that used to come out through the reefs were all double-enders.

They carried some really heavy loads in rough seas.”

He noticed also, how many of the cruising yachts in the wild places he went were heavy displacement, double-ended designs.

“They look nice too,” he said. “You can sit on the beach and watch them at anchor, and from whichever angle you view them, they look pretty: not like these modern boats with their reverse sheers, looking like they've been pumped out of a machine like sausages! A double-ender is quite a bit harder to build, of course, but I think it’s well worth the effort.”

Spindrift was the only boat built to the plans in New Zealand and while you now and then see designs by the likes of Hanna, Pape, Archer, and Atkin, I've yet to spot another Fifer in New Zealand.

By Phil Smith

PAULONIA

WATERLINE 23

Paulonia boat taking shape David Blackley’s pauwlonia project is taking shape in a Papamoa boatshed and is expected to be completed in a few months.

The 8m ‘Cat 1’ trailer sailer is being built by boat builder Darren Schofield, assisted by Mark Collins and Adam Scott-Mackie.

In June 2010 David Blackley announced in Waterline that he was

Adam, Mark and Darren in the paulownia hull. looking for a boat builder to assist with a project he was hoping would also build new lives for those taking part in the construction.

The intention is to build an 8m trailer sailor good enough to take offshore, and that can double as a caravan or back yard accommodation.

The construction material is paulownia, a light weight, fast growing timber that was all the rage of the farm forestry set in the 1990s.

He built the cabin top of his current boat out of it, and has since harvested enough to build a complete hull.

The design is similar to the boat David is sailing at present.

“That boat is 24 years old,” says David. “I would sail around the world in that boat, I would be comfortable with it.”

It’s the first time Darren Schofield has built in Paulownia, though Auckland designer Robert Shaw built a strip plank 7m racing shell of paulownia, called Custard Truck.

Rob’s day job is head of marine at Unitech. He says Paulownia is a good material to work with and he would treat it the same as cedar.

He had a problem getting reasonably long lengths.

“As far as gluing the laminations, the paulownia probably laminated

and glued far better than cedar,” says Rob. Darren finds paulownia user friendly, but he also complained about short lengths. He was using 2.5-3m lengths in the hull.

“The lengths for the deck are longer,” says Darren. “It would be nice to be able to use 4-5m, we should be able to get 4m.

“It was a good activity for the boys - plenty of scarfing - Mark’s done a lot of scarfing.

The next lot will be better trees apparently.”

The core is sheathed in bi-axial cloth.

The trailer yacht has built-in water ballast, a lead keel and a hardwood centreboard inside a fibreglass case.

“David’s very much about his ability to bounce off the bottom and not damage the boat. The centreboard and rudder will both flick.”

“I’m pretty sure he’s had his trailer yacht up to the islands, that’s why he wants Cat 1.”

The trailer yacht will be cat rigged with a single unstayed rotating carbon fibre mast, which Darren will also build.

“It’s pretty much a copy of his last boat,” says Darren. “The interior and everything is the same, same hull. The intention is to build another but the first one has to be sold off first.”

New Zealand paulownia is fast growing, able to be harvested in seven years, but it pays for the fast growth with growth rings too far apart to be attractive in the wood’s traditional Asian markets. It is described as being halfway between balsa and poplar in density.

a o

t t

W ac ky c p ti N con e Send us the best silly caption for this photo, and we’ll top off your day with a fine Waterline cap. brian@thesun.co.nz, Fax 07 571 1116, Waterline, PO Box 240, Tauranga.

This month’s winner from Julie “William and Kates honeymoon suite”. “‘International Rescue torpedoes Bin Laden ocean retreat” From Jimmy

“Given the options, not all of them lived on a yellow submarine” From Brett

“Michael Jackson’s mortgagee sale” From Tracy

FISHING

24 WATERLINE

Get out there The couple of cyclones that hit The Bay (and the rest of the country) in late January have not deterred the angling and diving fraternity for long.

The spells of weather in between have been fantastic and the opportunities to get out well worth it.

The dirty water after the rain settled very quickly so the divers have been back out there as well. The shellfish ban is still on in our area but the crays are around in reasonable numbers.

The Tauranga harbour continues to fish very well, new comers to the sport catching good numbers of fish, the snapper feeding in a literal frenzy at times even during the day. A few good sized trevally and plenty of kingfish to hold the interest of both shoreline and boat fishos.

Keep your catch in tip-top condition.

Always put your fish in salt water flake ice!

Hungry fish

The fishing along the beach has also been exceptional. Surfcasters catching limit bags of snapper. The formula is to look for a decent feature off the beach and fish into it. Holes, rips or gutters are all holding fish. The fish are hungry so are feeding on almost anything.

The beach long liners are having patchy results at the moment, snapper can be elusive which is strange as the boats and surfcasters are catching well. More gurnard and kahawai on the longlines, the odd line coming in loaded with snaps’.

Straylining the area off the beaches, the 15-20m zone approximately 1.5-2k’s offshore is very productive during dawn and dusk; the snapper still more susceptible to soft bait during daylight hours.

Kingfish about

The mid range reefs are still holding tarakihi and are well worth targeting by the mechanical jiggers for kingfish. Straylining the dusk period with a solid burley trail should also work.

There almost seems to be a plague of rat kingfish around at the moment, anglers all over The Bay reporting being pestered by them, almost like kahawai, struggling to get a bait through them to the bottom. A great sign for the future, another year or so and the rats will be legal or bigger.

The outer reefs also holding tarakihi, the mechanical jigging fleet also paying them lots of attention. A few boats live baiting for Marlin as well.

Game season in full swing

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The game fishing went a bit quiet in late January although The Mount Club weighed their first marlin for the season. Most of the fish caught so far have fallen to trolled lures, February and March will hopefully be the time for the live baiters. During the Tauranga Game Fishing Clubs’ Tuna Tournament there were a lot of mahi mahi and a good number of short bill spearfish caught. These species seem to be becoming more abundant in our waters over recent years; they are a welcome addition to the game species available to us. Yellow fin still in short supply, only one weighed during this comp at 62.6kg.

The Game fishing calendar is now in full swing, hopefully the weather will hold and the full number of days can be fished.

The deep reefs around Mayor Island have been holding some big gem fish and some reasonable blue nose. There is something out there for everyone, the weather is fantastic, nice and hot, water temperature good, fishing great, long may it last.

FISHING

WATERLINE 25

A very fishy business A Bay of Plenty fishing boat is long overdue, as is this psychological page-turner.

Reviewed by Lee Murray

A Very Fishy Business, a debut novel from Tauranga writer Ian Clarke, is a gentleman’s John Grisham, a keenly-observed suspense drama set in a small Coromandel township.

It’s the story of naive bachelor Ralph Sinclair, newly ashore and recently-appointed as a ship surveyor, he’s the ‘Ministry Man’ on the spot when a commercial fishing boat is reported overdue.

Sinclair is enlisted to assist Marine Inspector Rothfall investigate the boat’s disappearance, but the inspector’s prickly methods meet with resistance. Seduced by the town’s charms, and falling in love with the missing skipper’s daughter, Sinclair is drawn inexorably into a net of small-town secrets and insecurities. When the disagreeable Captain Rothfall is found dead, Sinclair, the outsider, finds himself accused of murder.

In writing circles, it’s commonly agreed you should write what you know, and author

Ian Clarke has done just that. Going to sea at sixteen, the Master Mariner has served as a systems engineer, a lecturer in nautical studies, a surveyor of ships, and a maritime safety inspector. The cumulative knowledge from these experiences slip seamlessly into A Very Fishy Business. What’s more, Clarke was once employed by a “shadowy firm that provided intellectual services to the British military.” This could explain both his talent for intrigue, and his discreet and unassuming manner.

Likewise, Clarke’s writing style is understated, almost restrained. Steering clear of grisly crime scenes, he chooses instead to build suspense though clever plotting and realistic, pithy dialogue. His small-town characters are so well-observed, one wonders if the author has spent more than the odd weekend people-watching at seaside establishments like the Landing Hotel.

But it’s not all scholarly analysis. The story is salted with humour; an unfortunate incident with a pair of binoculars, a comical end to a romantic tryst, and, amongst the cast of characters are Fin Bass, Miss Spratt,

Foggerty, the ethereal inspector preferred by the townsfolk, and the Phillett Fishing Company, the subject of the inquiry.

The launch of A Very Fishy Business will be held at Creative Tauranga, Willow Street, on Friday 18th March from 5 pm, the first, one hopes, of many such occasions for Clarke. No doubt his maritime colleagues, desirous of a cameo appearance, will be first in line for a copy of this gripping local story.

Bay of Plenty shellfish still off the menu Bay of Plenty shellfish are still harbouring unsafe levels of biotoxins and eating them is not recommended.

O u r f i s h i n g t r i p s a re

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Bivalves have been off the menu for over a year now, with the first warning about unsafe biotoxins being made in December 2009.

“We thought we’ve got to put a line in the sand – literally,” says medical officer of health Dr Phil Shoemack.

“So it’s Davis Road, going down from the main road down to the eastern end of Pukehina, that’s the limit.

“I wouldn’t interpret why. Previous years it’s been extended up the East Coast, we’ve never been able to understand why.

“It’s the phyto plankton and the sea, which does its own thing. It’s subject to ocean currents, it’s subject to weather, nutrients - but in the end sometimes it’s not logical.”

Weekly monitoring continues to show high levels of paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) present in shellfish along the BOP coastline from Tairua to Pukehina.

The health warning includes Tairua (including Tairua Harbour) south, including Opoutere, Onemana, Whangamata, and Whiritoa, east along the Bay of Plenty coastline from Waihi beach, including Tauranga Harbour to Davis Road, Pukehina. All inshore islands within the above area are included. The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as catseye and kina (sea urchin).

Paua, crayfish and crab can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking.

Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish.

Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention.

Email: info@blueocean.co.nz

Website: www.blueocean.co.nz

26 WATERLINE

MAYOR ISLAND

Next step for Mayor Island Mataitai The process of obtaining a customary mataitai reserve round Tuhua, Mayor Island is entering the next phase with written submissions being called for.

“Though there’s the prospect if the application is successful, that there could be recommended bylaws that could change the amateur rules for the mataitai reserve.”

That would require public consultation.

“We can’t talk about that unless the applicants talk about what they might consider in the future for people’s interest, but that’s not part of the process we are actually dealing with now. We are only dealing with the Minister making a decision ‘will this area be a mataitai reserve or not’.”

The proposed mataitai reserve encompasses all fisheries waters enclosed by a line surrounding Mayor Island that extends one nautical mile beyond the mean high water mark, excluding the area of the Tuhua Marine Reserve on the northern side of the Island. The proposed area is approximately 29 square km.

Pursuant to Regulation 21 of the Fisheries (Kaimoana Customary Fishing) Regulations 1998, this notice invites written submissions from persons having a fishing interest in the stock or stocks in the area of the proposed mataitai reserve.

The procedure is now at the second stage of consultation which will be completed once the ministry obtains submissions from commercial interests and others.

“We could then be at the point of running an advice paper, but at the same time applicants always have the opportunity to make amendments to applications, so we always check in with them to see what response if any they might have to the issues raised in submissions,” says Randall.

Submissions must be made by Tuesday, 1 March 2011 to: Randall Bess, Ministry of Fisheries, PO Box 1020, Wellington, Randall.Bess@fish.govt.nz, (04) 819 4621.

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A copy of the application and a map of the proposed area can be obtained by contacting the Ministry of Fisheries at the above address. A map is also available on the Ministry of Fisheries website (www.fish.govt.nz).

The Tuhua Trust Board has applied to the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture for a mataitai reserve for the fisheries waters around Mayor Island, excluding Tuhua Marine Reserve on the northern side of the Island.

A mataitai reserve is an identified traditional fishing ground in fisheries waters established for the purpose of non-commercial customary food gathering.

The Tuhua Trust Board and the Ministry of Fisheries previously consulted with the local community over the application in a meeting at the Tauranga Yacht and Power Boat Club on December 14.

About 60 people attended, including come commercial interests says Randall, even though the meeting was not supposed to be about commercial fishing.

“There was a good cross section of views, Says Randall.

The commercial fishing interests were concerned about maintaining an ability to use the island for shelter, by anchoring close in.

“There was a little bit of air time on that.

“One of the big issues that I recall is that a number of people were raising questions about whether or not there were any particular stocks that were under stress and required further management.

“That doesn’t necessarily play into the Minister’s decision, because these types of applications are about recognising the relationship between tangata whenua and the area, and providing for them to manage the area.

“It doesn’t require that there’s some problem that need to be fixed – though there were a lot of discussions about how things have changed over the decades.”

A mataitai reserve in itself would have no direct effect on charter boat fishing, says Randall. Charter boats do not require a commercial fishing permit or quota.

JET SKI

WATERLINE 27

Tauranga link for jet ski record Three Tauranga men were among the support team that saw pilot Jeremy Burfoot break the world record for travelling on a jet ski in 24 hours.

Jeremy broke the record on Lake Karapiro on Tuesday February 8 with the help of a team of about 10-12 people including Tauranga based friend Colin Bower, Matt Kneesch and Daniel Mickleson.

It was a team effort that broke the previous European record by 647 km, raising it from 1641km to 2288km.

It involved Jeremy riding about an 18km course for 24 hours at about 112kmh or 70mph.

“We’ve been involved really only the last couple of weeks,” says Matt. “We serviced and set the skis up last week.

“I was doing all the mechanical side of things and just general support I suppose.

“The night course was a bit shorter because at night he was still full throttle, which is 70mph or 112kmh and that was navigated by GPS, and a few little navigation lights that we set up throughout the course.

“It is pretty scary at night when you are doing 70mph following a dotted line and it is pitch black. He couldn’t see a hell of a lot - that was the biggest thing, trying to keep his concentration up.

“At the dam end there was a big long sweeping corner reasonably well lit. Apparently the other end of the course was a lot tighter and a little bit harder to navigate around.

“That was the only stage, especially during the night when he was backing off to get around the corner. It’s simply because judging your distance at night is pretty hard. You have got a light, is it close or far away? He would back up there for a second or so then be flat out on the gas again.”

Hard going

Passing the record

“It’s hard going. The ski runs about 2,800 rpm and it’s at that pretty much constantly for 24 hours. Every 50 minutes he was coming in for fuel. We were throwing 56-57 litres into the ski. I’m not too sure of the exact amount of fuel we went through in the end, it equates to quite a few thousand dollars in fuel.”

Some of the support team were constantly going back and forth to the gas station, says Matt.

“We ran the attempt on 98 octane to keep the engine running a little bit cooler. It will run on 91 but 98 for that kind of running is the fuel to use. There were a lot of trips, unfortunately they weren’t sponsoring us.

“Most of it was labour of love, nobody was really being paid to be there.”

They set up at Karapiro rowing centre at the dam end of the lake says Matt with the course running up the lake eight or nine kilometres, round a buoy and back again.

They passed the old record at 9.20am on Tuesday morning, with four hours remaining before the 4pm cut off. “It was just all go to make sure if anybody else wanted to attempt it, it was going to be pretty hard for them,” says Matt. “It is possible, but everything would have to flow through just right. It was one rider only and he sat on that ski pretty much constantly for that whole 24 hours.”

Conditions on the lake were nice and flat and the Sea Doo has good suspension, says Matt.

“It wasn’t overly exciting to watch, they were just setting that record which was the big goal. Everybody there got a little sleep here and there, but very minimal. Everybody was pretty much awake for that 24 hours.”

Jeremy is a Qantas 747 pilot who previously made headlines over an aborted attempt to jet ski from London to Sydney. The attempt was called off because of security concerns. Jeremy also jet skied around New Zealand a few years ago.

MUSSELS

28 WATERLINE

Mussel farms ‘might be bad for sea life’ New Zealand’s largest mussel farm, a 3,800ha area of sea eight kilometres off the Opotiki Coast is going to seriously affect the Bay of Plenty’s already diminishing fish stocks, says Tauranga dolphin watch skipper Graeme Butler.

“When you think about it, you have got a footprint five times the size of Mayor Island with water running through it at about a knot, 15 metres deep through the most voracious filter feeder known on the planet, slurping the plankton out, it’s got to have a major impact on the waters around here,” says Graeme.

Plankton

“To take that much plankton out of the water, and plankton and protein in the water is anything; it’s fish eggs, it’s anything at all. Snapper eggs, paua spat, paua milt, anything at all that can be converted into mussel flesh will be taken in by these animals.

“Below them it’s like a chook factory, there’s just nothing there. Its really interesting actually, it’s frightening to me because I just think that for so long people have completely and utterly disregarded the life web, the ecology.”

The Opotiki mussel farm is the equivalent of strip mining the foundation of the marine food chain to the detriment of all species, says Graeme.

“Just grazing the bottom of the food chain is an absolutely stupid thing to do,” says Graeme.

Bay of Plenty snapper stocks have a major nursery off the Motu River mouth, and he asks if anyone knows the effect it will have on other fish stocks like mackerel, kahawai, pilchards – and the animals that feed on the white fish; pilot whales, dolphins, orca, seals.

“We don’t see pilot whales at all much now, and there’s lots of strandings and the argument is ‘there have always been pilot whale strandings so it’s nothing new’, but there’s always been pilot whales before as well.

“There’re no pilot whales out here, we don’t see them much. We’ve seen one pod of 24 this year and we used to see big pods.”

New Zealand’s internationally famous squid researcher Dr Steve O’Shea says it’s because there’s no whitefish left.

“There’s not the quantity of whitefish left to sustain them, so they eat squid and they can’t digest the squid beaks. They have all got ulcerated stomachs so they are under stress from that, but also they don’t get the moisture that they need so they are thirsty.

They are stressed from lack of moisture.”

“Steve O’Shea has said to the fishing industry, ‘stop bloody fishing squid until you know what they eat.’

“He’s been researching squid forever – and he hasn’t got a clue what they eat or what causes them to grow so fast. A colossal squid grows from an egg which is tiny, to a massive 500kg animal in round about 470 odd days. And they still don’t know what it eats.

Waste of space

“I’ve just had to throw my hands up and admit defeat, and just accept now that the ocean is stuffed, and that the basic stewardship of the ocean in the hands of MAF and DOC is just a complete and utter waste of space.”

DOC’s involvement with the Opotiki marine farm was largely concerned with the possibility of the farm’s lines entangling southern right whales, says community relations officer Chris Staite.

“I think there is monitoring that needs to go on phyto plankton and various other things that need to be monitored,” says Chris.

“It’s going to be developed in stages. The key thing of the whole adaptive management side of things is that if something significant does happen and it can be shown that the marine farm is likely to be the cause of it – that’s where the regional council has got a duty to step in and make the holders of the consent avoid or reduce that effect as much as they can.”

Marine scientist at the BOP regional council Stephen Park says some of Graeme’s concerns are shared, and that a lot of science has been done to try to establish what impact the development will have on the marine environment.

Research

The development is also being staged and monitored as it goes and it has sparked additional research.

“Even the applicants themselves went through and developed models for the mussel farm as to what they thought the impact of plankton depletion would be around the farm,” says Stephen.

“We’ve also had some work we do ourselves to try to establish productivity in the bay in terms of plankton. We have some independent analysis as well.”

The reports should be available on the regional council’s website, under aquaculture marine areas.

MARINE NEWS

WATERLINE 29

Developing a productivity model “The science part of that was looking at developing a hydrological productivity model for the Bay of Plenty and one of the end results of that was looking at putting in more marine farms,’ says Stephen.

“They looked at not just one, but a number of them. We were looking at the same issues. If you have got big marine farms there, will that have flow on effects to surrounding areas.”

The possibility that large mussels farms might have an impact on pelagic fish stocks

is an issue that is still being researched, says Stephen.

“There are some uncertainties and that’s one of the reasons why it was only granted as a staged development,” says Stephen.

“The applicants sought a variation to go for an even smaller stage one that was granted.

“There are five lines down there so it’s not the original stage one, it’s actually far smaller, a little tiny block of mussel farm down there.

“They have essentially done that to look

to see if it actually works as a practical viable way of farming mussels in that environment.

“Its such a low level that it’s really just an experimental trial plot, so at the moment they don’t have the full suite of monitoring conditions imposed on them.

The full suite of monitoring conditions will be applied as soon as the farm reaches the original stage one size.

By Andrew Campbell

Even a bad day on the banks is good Scott Adamson and friends have been going for a spring fish off the Ranfurly Banks for about the last 10 years.

The team heads for East Cape the first or last week of October November, stay at Waihou Bay for a week or so and always include a charter trip to the Ranfurly Banks on Deep Star.

“That was a bad day out there,” says Scott of the photo. “The previous year we all got our limit of hapuku, bass and kingis.”

They pick up Deep Star at Hicks Bay, for the three hour trip to the Ranfurlies.

It is a 17 hour trip from Tauranga.

Spot the kingfish. Scott Adamson, Andy Karr, Alan Turner and Jason Youle on the Ranfurly banks.

Matakana Island Raid gaining popularity Word is out about the Matakana Island Raid with the second event attracting more than twice the entries of last year’s first effort.

Organiser Lance Putan is expecting about 20 multihulls to take part this year with the Tauranga Yacht and Power Boat Club’s multi hull division boosted by Auckland entries.

“Last year we had about eight boats,” says Lance. “I’ve been doing quite a bit of trying to get it happening, and we’ve actually got quite a few boats coming down from Auckland. “Last year we had two boats from Auckland and this year we’re hoping

to have probably 11 boats from Auckland.”

Lances is expecting Four F18s, and a number of Hobie Cats, both 16s and 18s.

“I heard on the grapevine there’s a trailer trimaran coming down as well, so it’s going to be quite a big event,” says Lance.

He’s booked out the Athenree Hot Springs and holiday Park for the Saturday night.

The Raid programme starts Friday night with a harbour race before the raid sets out up the harbour to Omokoroa on Saturday morning.

There’s a re-start at Omokoroa about lunch time with the fleet then heading to Bowentown.

“Sunday morning we will see what the

weather’s like and head over the Bowentown Bar and come down the outside,’’ says Lance.

“We’ve just got to make sure we leave ourselves an hour before the tide, so we can all scoot back down the middle again if it’s too rough. Last year we didn’t go outside because there was a big swell running and there were quite a few breakers on the Matakana Bar.” He’s expecting the raid will make quite a sight with about 20 boats heading up the harbour.

There will be about five 11 metre cats as part of a good entry from the club’s multihull division.

“It’s going to be a fun event.”

MARINE NEWS

30 WATERLINE

No surprises from beach survey

Tauranga harbour’s health and the continuing erosion of public access to the waterside are the main concerns for people surveyed over the recreational use of Tauranga Harbour.

People come to harbour side to enjoy the beach and its surroundings. While it is good to have facilities on or near the beach, they are not why people visit the beach, a regional council survey has found.

More than 240 interviews of harbour users were undertaken over the New Year holiday.

It is part of the Tauranga Harbour Recreation Strategy prepared in partnership with Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of

Plenty District Council to manage recreational use of Tauranga Moana.

Harbour users surveyed also commented on skipper behaviour on the water where the five knot rule is not being followed, and commented on inexperienced or poor skippering of powered craft.

“The harbour is used for a wide variety of recreational interests, from boating and swimming to kayaking and shellfish gathering,” says Bay of Plenty Regional Council Group Manager Water Management Eddie Grogan.

Comments associated with the harbour beaches are; “The beach is part of who we are; generation after generation, we have come here on holiday”, and; “We want the beach to stay part of the natural environment and left as a place to get away

from everyday life – to relax and recreate throughout the summer periods.”

Information from some repeat visitors in the 50 years and over age bracket was extremely interesting and valuable, particularly their comparison with the recreational amenity today, says Eddie.

Others value Tauranga Harbour as; “not just a place to recreate but part of our everyday lifestyle,” illustrating the importance of the harbour to many local people.

“Overall the public were responsive to the request to be interviewed and very few people declined to be surveyed,” says Eddie.

The survey will help the councils better understand who is using the harbour, where they come from, what their perceptions are, and what their needs are for their recreation experiences at Tauranga Harbour.

GULF GROUP

WATERLINE 31

SOLE AGENT

SOLE AGENT

SOLE AGENT

32 WATERLINE