The Bay of Islands will host one of the strongest ILCA fleets seen in New Zealand for many years when the 2026 New Zealand ILCA Nationals get underway this January.
Sailed from Bay of Islands Yacht Club in Paihia, the regatta runs from 14 to 18 January 2026 and has attracted just under 100 boats, combining New Zealand’s leading ILCA sailors with a high calibre international contingent.
The ILCA 7 fleet is the headline act. Overseas entries include three of the current world top five, led by Britain’s Michael Beckett, Ireland’s Finn Lynch, and the Netherlands’ Duko Bos. They are joined by Ireland’s Ewan McMahon, Singapore’s experienced campaigner Ryan Lo, and Japan’s Haruto Kuroda.
New Zealand’s challenge is equally strong, with world number 10 George Gautrey, defending national champion Caleb Armit, and rising talent George Pilkington, a recent top five finisher at the Under 21 Worlds. Former World Laser Champion Nik Burfoot adds depth in the Masters ranks.
The ILCA 6 fleet also promises tight racing, featuring international sailors Erika Reineke (USA) and Frances Beebe (Australia) against Kiwi standouts Greta Pilkington and former world champion George Lane, alongside youth stars Chloe Turner and Tom Pilkington.
Racing begins on Thursday 15 January, with organisers aiming to introduce live tracking for the first time at a New Zealand ILCA Nationals, adding further interest to a standout regatta.
Learn more:
2026 NZ ILCA Nationals
2026 NZ ILCA Nationals Preview
Live tracking
