In less than three weeks, New Zealand’s great race north will once again light up the Hauraki Gulf, with the first start scheduled for 09:30 on Friday, 24 October.
The PIC Coastal Classic, New Zealand’s largest yacht race, is a springtime tradition. Each Labour Weekend, crews line up off Devonport Wharf to tackle the 119-nautical-mile dash to Russell — a test of speed, strategy, and seamanship that continues to define Kiwi sailing.
This year’s entry list already counts 66 boats, with more expected before entries close on 13 October. Of these, 55 are returning competitors, proof of the race’s enduring pull as a must-do challenge on the national sailing calendar.
Among the familiar names is Fez, owned by Casey and Justine Bellingham. Built from Northland kauri by Bruce Warwick in 1986, the 50-foot Warwick design is a true Kiwi classic — elegant, quick, and built to last. After finishing ninth on line honours but first overall on handicap in 2024, Fez returns to defend her title and reputation as the cruiser that races with heart.
Also back is Wired, the TP52 designed by Brett Bakewell-White and built by Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders. Owned by Rob Bassett and Brett Russell, Wired has a formidable record across the PIC Coastal Classic, Round North Island Race, and Bay of Islands Sailing Week. The 2023 winner is again among the frontrunners for 2025.
Photo: Gareth Cooke/Subzero Images
Adding fresh energy is Sassinate, a 2017 Melges 40 skippered by Mikayla Plaw, who steered her to second overall in 2022. She joins Olympian Sharon Ferris-Choat, who returns at the helm of Vixen Racing — a sleek 12.2-metre Verdier 40 that remains one of the fleet’s most distinctive contenders.
PIC Coastal Classic Commodore Adrian Percival says the fleet reflects the event’s unique appeal.
“The Coastal always delivers — from glamour yachts to family crews and hard-driving race machines. It’s a celebration of Kiwi sailing, with something for everyone.”
With the starting cannon set to fire at 09:30 on Friday, 24 October, Auckland’s waterfront will once again turn into a spectacle of colour, energy, and anticipation.
From the first boat off Devonport Wharf to the last across the line in Russell, the challenge remains the same: 119 nautical miles of ever-changing wind, tide, and coastline — a true test of seamanship and spirit.
