Deep Purple 511 Posted October 26, 2021 Share Posted October 26, 2021 I saw this photo today and thought how well it captured the spirit of sailing these days out of the main centres. A scene repeated up and down the country, Opua, Kerikeri, Whangarei, Sandspit, Whitianga, Taupo, Tauranga, a bunch of mixed boats out having fun with mates. And it looks like the fleets are growing. I was talking to a mate the other day about changes happening in Auckland. How marine service industries are moving out of town. Issues are Cost of premises (sails and masts take a lot of space and that costs) Ever intrusion of housing into traditional marine precincts Inability of staff to find accomodation Regulatory issues His concern was even if you can persuade the wife and kids to move to the "sticks" following the work, how do you get your racing kick, especially if you are in the industry. Expectations will no doubt change, you won't be racing 5 days a week but there is still fun to be had. There is fun in a small club, be a volunteer, teach kids to sail, work on your boat, go for fun sail on a Saturday and the away regattas take on a whole new sense of engagement when it's your opportunity to see how you go against the rest of the world. Anyway back to the photo, cats, solings, keelboats, sport boats, trailer yachts, dodgy handicappers, moorings a few beers and not a protest in sight (maybe) 1 2 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Open Country 1 Posted October 27, 2021 Share Posted October 27, 2021 The divergence of industry in general from the main centers is inevitable. This being driven by the reasons you mentioned. There is fabulous opportunity for the marine industry in coastal regional centers, such as Whangarei Tauranga, Gisborne,Napier etc. Tauranga has got to be the jewel in the crown with 2 very good clubs, with a stellar reputation when it comes to champions. just an example. The country's only deep water port, when it comes to export. The Bay of Plenty has several active clubs, as well as BOPTYS in Rotorua which is the largest trailer yacht squadron in the country- Plenty of room for sports boats too. They cater for anything that floats, and you can still drink the water. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
harrytom 642 Posted October 27, 2021 Share Posted October 27, 2021 How clubs can last being lockdown,no income?? Quote Link to post Share on other sites
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