Bob Blakey's love of sailing began nearly 50 years ago in the basement of his family home where his father helped him build boats.
As a teenager Mr Blakey took one of those homemade boats - an 11ft plywood Moth - and sailed in his first Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta.
"It was just so exciting to be out on the harbour," the 59-year-old recalls.
On Monday, during the 165th Anniversary Day Regatta, Mr Blakey will relive that excitement for the 42th time in a row - but he won't be the only Blakey on the water.
In keeping with family tradition, three of his four adult sons will also be out on the water, competing alongside him.
The Blakeys are typical of many families who will participate in the New Zealand Herald-sponsored regatta, which attracts thousands of keen boaties.
Mr Blakey said his father, Max, loved boats and used to crew for his brother-in-law during the Auckland regattas. With Mr Blakey snr no longer alive, Mr Blakey and his sons have happily continued the family tradition of attending as many regattas as possible.
Richard, 36, won the Laser Class of the competition last year - an achievement which made him see the event in a different light.
"What I realised was just how big a deal it was. When I went to the prizegiving there were admirals there, dignitaries and cups that dated back to early last century."
Scott, 25, competed in his first Auckland Anniversary Regatta at the age of 7 and has never looked back.
He said one of the best parts of the event was being able to compete against his father and brothers in the same class.
"It just makes you go that little bit harder."
Chairman of the Auckland Anniversary Regatta Committee Eric Henry said families were a big part of the regatta and entertainment on dry ground meant even more people could enjoy the day.
"Traditionally, it's been on the water but this year we have extended it as part of Auckland's Birthday [celebrations] to include events on land.
"It's going to be a big occasion for families ... there's going to be plenty of action."
Mr Henry said the big day would start at 9am with the Navy frigate Te Kaha sailing under the Harbour Bridge for the first time.
At 11am the Governor-General will officially start the racing by firing the frigate's gun.
When the gun does go off the Blakeys will be ready, with their wives and children waiting on the shore to cheer them on.
And just to ensure the family tradition continues into a fourth generation Richard is preparing his children, 2-year-old Lauren and 5-month-old Elliot, for a future on the water.
"Not yet, they are a little bit small but it won't be too far away."
Happy Birthday
* What: A celebration of Auckland's birthday and official recognition of the arrival of Captain Hobson in New Zealand.
* When: Monday January 31, starting 9am.
* Age: 165 years old.
* Who: Thousands of boaties of all ages on the water and thousands more spectators on land.
Entertainment
* Dozens of water events including: radio controlled yachts, class competitions, Te Kaha sailing under Harbour Bridge, parade of classic motor launches, heritage sail on the Waitemata, public rides on steam-powered vessels.
* Land events at the Viaduct Harbour and Princes Wharf include: Live music, face painting, Navy Band, jazz and puppet shows.
What yacht is that: Laser
* A small one-man yacht which has been used for the past three years in the Olympics by New Zealand representatives.
* Costs about $3000 secondhand or $8000 new.
* Moderate skill required so not ideal for learners.
* About 1000 in New Zealand, many lying around at baches.
* Between 100 and 200 serious Laser Competitors.
Bob Blakey's love of sailing began nearly 50 years ago in the basement of his family home where his father helped him build boats.
As a teenager Mr Blakey took one of those homemade boats - an 11ft plywood Moth - and sailed in his first Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta.
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