Yachtsman plans to leave after Christmas

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

The young Auckland solo sailor Seth van Mechelen and his yacht Luna look set to continue their journey south from Gisborne early in the new year.

Gisborne Coastguard towed the disabled yacht and 21-year-old Seth into Eastland Port after the big southerly storm in late November.

Sail and engine repairs were required before Seth could head to Wellington and eventually Nelson.

He told The Herald he was spending Christmas with family prior to returning to Gisborne on December 31, when he plans to resume his journey.