This 609HT Stabi-Craft has been added to the Ministry of Fisheries' patrol fleet to work the top of the South Island. There are now 12 of the Invercargill-built craft working from Cape Reinga to Bluff. The ministry picked the hard-top because of its good rough-water performance.
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Aucklanderspick up on Marlinspike challenge
The Auckland Classic Yacht Trust will have at least one of its fleet contesting the Bay of Island's Marlinspike Trophy (Weekend Marine October 15-16) at Paihia next year. Chairman John Street says it will be an ideal outing for the 1894 Logan classic Waitangi and her skipper, Tony Blake, and crew.
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Shanghai to get big yachting city
The Shanghai authorities will launch a yachting city in the Fengxian district of China, offering investment opportunities for potential partners, including boatbuilders, designers, engine manufacturers and service companies.
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Water-Watch
As the huge Coastal Classic Fleet heads for Russell there's plenty of other action this weekend. Main events: Today: Saturday race (Bucklands Beach YC); Cruising race (Ponsonby CC); Icebreaker rum race (Panmure Y&BC); Cruise to Kawau (Weiti BC). Saturday to Monday: Labour Weekend cruise (Waitemata TYS); Senior classes regatta (Takapuna SC).
Events on the Waitemata or Manukau should be registered in advance with the ARC on (09) 366 2000. The 24-hour response number for the maritime unit is (09) 362 0397.
