Sailing towards a third decade

• Published date: 26 January 2023

More than 100 boats have entered to compete in the milestone event. Despite a forecast of rain for later in the week, organisers say excitement levels are high all round about the return of one of NZ’s favourite sailing events

The regatta is making a welcome return to the Bay of Islands after it was cancelled last year. What should have been the regatta’s 20th year in 2022 was called off due to COVID restrictions and a lack of funding. Now with COVID restrictions a thing of the past, and a significant funding boost, organisers say they’re pleased the regatta is once again a viable event.

“The majority of boats taking part are ones that come back year after year, and the sailors always tell us this is one of their favourite events,” said regatta publicity officer Helen Horrocks, “so it’s great to be able to bring back an event that everyone loves.”

Since its inception in 2003, Bay of Islands Sailing Week has been operated as a non-profit, run almost entirely by volunteers, and funded primarily through sponsorship and grants. Additional funding for this year’s event was provided by the Northland Events Fund administered by Northland Inc, and the Events Investment Fund administered by the Far North District Council. Both organisations noted the positive impact the regatta has on the local economy, by attracting hundreds of visitors to the region each year.

Te Pēwhairangi Marine Mammal Sanctuary also presented additional challenges for organisers this year, with new rules requiring boats in the Bay of Islands to...