Foil4TheGulf, spearheaded by the Black Foils and the Live Ocean Foundation, is a bold call to action aimed at rescuing the fragile health of the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana. The event, happening Saturday 24 May and hosted at the Royal Akarana Yacht Club, is as much a protest as it is a celebration – rallying public support to pass the long-awaited Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill into law.
A gulf in decline
The Gulf is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most iconic marine environments – a playground for sailors, fishers, kayakers and of course, foilers. But under the surface, scientists and local communities are sounding alarms. Overfishing, sedimentation, and biodiversity loss have brought this rich ecosystem to a tipping point. As Live Ocean’s Blair Tuke puts it:
“Kiwis have a special connection to the ocean and so many of us, including foilers, spend hours out on the water, particularly in the Gulf. This event is an awesome opportunity to bring people together to learn about the importance of protecting the Gulf… it’s at a tipping point.”
The proposed Marine Protection Bill, which passed its second reading in Parliament late last year, offers a comprehensive response. It includes 19 new protected areas – from marine reserves and High Protection Areas to zones that safeguard fragile seafloor habitats. The goal is to strike a balance between restoration and customary use, allowing future generations to enjoy the Gulf as previous ones have.
Foil for the future
Foil4TheGulf isn’t a typical regatta. Open to foilers of all skill levels – from total beginners to Olympic medallists – the event is designed to turn heads and capture hearts. While the foiling action will dominate the water from 2pm, the onshore programme includes guest speakers, food and drink, and interactive stations to learn more about the Gulf’s plight. Even landlubbers can take part, sending digital postcards to Parliament through an online portal that asks: what do you love about the Gulf?
Organisers are targeting at least 200 foilers on the water – a number that could set a Southern Hemisphere record. But for Peter Burling, who co-leads Live Ocean alongside Tuke, the real victory would be political.
“As great as the Gulf looks from the surface, it’s at a tipping point below the waterline. We’re hearing huge concern from scientists and locals about what they’re seeing. Restoring and protecting it will help ensure the health of the Gulf for future generations. The Bill is almost there – let’s get it done.”
Not just another race
The event also has a strong whānau and community spirit. Former Olympic sailor and foiling advocate Barbara Kendall is one of many lining up to take part.
“I can’t wait to help raise awareness for this cause. The Hauraki Gulf has been a part of my life since I was a baby, and I want that to be the case for future generations.”
While Parliament deliberates the final stages of the Bill, this grassroots campaign is doing what politics alone cannot – uniting a community of passionate New Zealanders on and off the water.
100% of proceeds from the event will go to Live Ocean, directly funding marine restoration efforts in the Hauraki Gulf.
Event details
Foil4TheGulf
📍 Royal Akarana Yacht Club, Okahu Bay
🗓️ Saturday 24 May
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1200 – Registration opens
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1315 – Welcome, event and safety briefing
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1400–1445 – Foilers on the water
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1500 onwards – Guest speakers, drinks, food, and prizegiving
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1630 – Close
More information and registration links are available via the Live Ocean Foundation and Foil4TheGulf event landing pages.
Restoring a national taonga
The Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill is the product of decades of advocacy. It draws heavily from the Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari plan and includes extensive consultation with tangata whenua and local stakeholders. The Bill proposes:
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Expanding two iconic marine reserves (Cathedral Cove and Goat Island)
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Establishing 12 new High Protection Areas, allowing for customary practices
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Creating 5 new Seafloor Protection Areas, which support sustainable use
However, recent Government amendments have stirred concern, with limited ring-net fishing now proposed in two of the HPAs – a move that critics say risks undermining ecological integrity.
Still, the opportunity to pass the country’s most significant marine protection legislation in decades remains within reach.
Be part of the movement
Foilers, ocean lovers, families and friends – your presence matters. Whether you’re on the water or onshore, this is a chance to make your voice heard.
Join the challenge. Sign the postcards. Share your story. Restore the Gulf.
Click through to find out more: https://liveocean.org/foil4thegulf/
