Tidelines: National show

An extended indoor pavilion at the Mystery Creek Events Centre has allowed more than 100 exhibitors to sign on for the 2003 National Boat Show from September 4 to 7. As well as marine-related industries and boating education, the show will have a huge range of entertainment, including a host of competitions and a Fashion on the Pier show, which will run three times a day. Opening hours are 9.30am to 5pm on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday with an extension to 9pm on Friday. Details on www.nationalboatshow.co.nz

SCALLOP ALERT

The Ministry of Fisheries has repeated a strong warning to scallop gatherers to obey the bag limits, which will be strictly enforced. District compliance manager Ian Bright says each gatherer is allowed only 20 scallops a day and each must measure at least 100mm across the widest part of the shell. Offenders can expect an instant fine, and in serious cases, prosecution and confiscation of boat and dive gear can follow. Bright can be contacted on (09) 820 1990.

CHICO AGAIN

Tauranga boatbuilder Ken Carter is about to get the Chico 42 back into production. He has bought the moulds and rights to the Keith Eade design, which first made an appearance in the 1980s. Carter says revival of the Chico 40, a safe ocean-going cruising and racing yacht, has generated a lot of interest among former owners as well as potential new owners. He can be contacted on 0800 424 426.

More of the same on the Waitemata this weekend as the winter racing programme continues.

Saturday: Women's winter series (PCC); MRX match-racing (RNZYS).

Sunday: Two-handed and Flying 15s continue (RAYC); Winter series continues (PCC); Long short-handed race (RYC).

* Clubs or organisations planning activity on the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on 09 366 2070. The new 24-hour response number for the RC Maritime Unit is (09) 362 0397