High stakes racing, a serious incident, and strong finishes close out 2025 to 2026 championship.
The final round of the New Zealand Offshore Powerboat Association Championship in Whitianga delivered everything, tight racing, strong fleet numbers, and a reminder of the risks that come with offshore competition.
Boats began arriving on Friday 20 March, setting the tone for a busy race weekend. By Saturday, a 16-boat fleet lined up off Buffalo Beach, with strong spectator turnout and a full programme of racing and shore-based activity.
Racing started with the most serious moment of the weekend. Fury II, skippered by Owen Mackay, nose-dived on the opening lap, submerging the boat and all three crew.
Emergency response teams reacted immediately. Medics, patrol boats, and divers were on scene within seconds, recovering the crew safely from the water.
All three crew members were later released from hospital with minor injuries. The incident was a stark reminder of the fine margins in offshore racing and the importance of well-drilled safety teams.
The remainder of the racing continued. In Superboat 600, Rainbow Haulage capped off a dominant season with another composed performance. Colin Dunn and Darren Butterworth secured strong points in both races, finishing the event on 550 points. Langslow Engineering, driven by Paul Greenfield with Jason Way on throttles, added a consistent performance to close out Whitianga on 150 points.
Sports 200 saw GEN2, piloted by Mikey Smith and Shane Rumens, reinforce their season-long consistency. Their 550 point Whitianga result pushed them to 100 points clear of Triple Trouble (450), driven by Alex Smith and Mark Taiatini, and 400 points ahead of Supersonic (150), with Ryan Archer and Joe Den-Hertog.
In Sports 140, Gold Ship, driven by Tom Haycock with Phillip Haycock alongside, sealed the class with 550 points after another steady showing. Coranto finished close behind on 450 points. Nakita, crewed by Grant Henry and Jessica Morley, came in third on 375 points, ahead of Mad Max on 150 points.
Cougar came out ahead in the Sports 70 class, with Grant Smith and Matt Hopkins walking away with 550 points, 100 points ahead of Chindit.
In Sports 80mph, Fury II drew with Captain Caveman, helmed by Keith Riddell and Rodger Puttick, both returning with 150 points.
The 60 Mile Overall standings confirmed GEN2 as the benchmark across classes, finishing Whitianga on 550 points. Triple Trouble followed 100 points behind on 450 points, with Cougar (375 points) and Chindit (319 points) completing the top four.
Despite Fury II‘s incident, Whitianga delivered a strong close to the championship. Racing was competitive, conditions kept crews alert, and the beach atmosphere drew families and supporters throughout the day.
With photo competitions, colouring activities, and the Offshore Card Chase running alongside the racing, the event reflected both the intensity and community spirit of offshore powerboat racing in New Zealand.
As the 2025 to 2026 racing concluded, Whitianga set a solid platform to build from heading into next season.
