New Zealand Offshore Powerboating returns to Gisborne this weekend as the championship shifts to Poverty Bay for its next crucial round.
Following a demanding event in Napier, where tough conditions tested boats and drivers, teams now arrive on the East Coast with the series picture tightening across multiple classes.
A strong fleet is expected to line up in Gisborne, including Blue Pill, Cougar, Coranto, Fury II, Gen2, Gold Ship, Langslow Engineering, Rainbow Haulage, Supersonic, Triple Trouble, and Purple Rain. Boats have already begun rolling into town, and fans will get the chance to have a closer look this evening. From 4.30pm to 8.00pm, several race boats will be parked at Total Fleet Solutions, giving the public a chance to meet crews and inspect the machinery up close.
Saturday’s programme begins at 0700 with race control set up opposite The Works Café on the Esplanade. Scrutineering follows at 0800 as boats arrive in the pits, with entries closing at 0900. A combined competitor briefing takes place at 0930 at the Inner Harbour boat ramp. Boats launch from 1045, with racing scheduled for 1200noon and 1300. Prize giving will be held at 1900 at the Tatapouri Fishing Club. Organisers have indicated that race format or timing may be adjusted if required to suit weather conditions.
While Gisborne carries a 65 percent chance of rain, winds are forecast to remain light. Conditions are expected to be manageable for crews accustomed to far more demanding seas.
Napier provided clear signals heading into this round. Fury strengthened its Sports 80mph dominance with another double win, finishing first overall in the 60 Mile contest ahead of Cougar. In Sports 200, Triple Trouble controlled both days, extending its championship advantage over Gen2, while Supersonic’s steering and ignition issues forced consecutive retirements. In Superboat 600, Rainbow Haulage and Langslow Engineering split victories, keeping that class finely balanced.
Napier tests pace and preparation as NZ Offshore season continues
Triple Trouble brings more than just pace to Gisborne. The #333 carries a family legacy spanning generations, from Bob Smith and Ted Taiatini’s early rivalry on Rotorua’s lakes to Alex Smith now at the helm alongside Mark Taiatini. Championships, breakages, late nights, and lifelong friendships define the programme, and momentum is firmly on their side after Napier.
Gen2 Racing, piloted by Mikey Smith with Shane Rumens, continues its push to reclaim class honours while promoting offshore racing’s grassroots revival. Their Gulf Harbour performance remains a highlight, and they will be eager to close the gap on Triple Trouble.
Racing unfolds off Poverty Bay, with the best public viewing along the coastline between Waikanae Surf Club and Midway Surf Club. With championship pressure building and reliability already shaping the series, Gisborne could prove pivotal in the 2026 campaign.
