Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour came alive as the 2026 PIC Harbour Classic combined close racing, light-air tactics, and a strong social spirit, reinforcing its place as one of New Zealand’s most accessible and enjoyable sailing events.
The 2026 PIC Harbour Classic showcased exactly what makes harbour racing so compelling. A fleet of diverse boats lined up off North Head to contest an approximately 8 nautical mile course between Takapuna and Rangitoto Island, sailed in light northerly conditions that demanded patience, awareness, and sharp tactical calls.
Despite modest breeze, the racing remained tight throughout. Crews found themselves sailing within metres of each other, often calling tactics across the water as positions shifted constantly. The light air compressed the fleet, leading to a congested and highly competitive finish where boats jostled for every metre.
“It was a fantastic finish. Boats were jostling around. Everybody bunched up at the finish.”
That intensity defined the day. Crews who managed to stay in pressure and position themselves well through the middle stages were rewarded, while others reflected on the fine margins.
“We came right up the middle and overtook the big boats… then got stuck. It could have been a little bit more wind, but it made the finish really interesting.”
Strong results across a diverse fleet
At the front of the fleet, results reflected both performance and consistency across divisions.
Sequesta, the Ed Dubois 42 skippered by Philip Deibert, secured first overall on handicap, capping off a strong and controlled race.
Line honours went to two standout performers:
- Alegre (Soto 40), skippered by Vaughn Clark, claimed first monohull across the line
- Frank Racing (GC32), skippered by Simon Hull, took multihull line honours
Across the divisions, the depth of Kiwi sailing talent was clear. Winners included:
- Extreme (Jim Young design), skippered by Mark Roberts (Moulet), in Division 2
- Southern Fun (Laurie Davidson design), skippered by Aaron Hume-Merry, in Division 3
- Perfect Alibi (Young 88), skippered by Colin Booth, in Division 4
- Sequesta (Ed Dubois 42), skippered by Philip Deibert, again in Division 5, underlining its all-round performance
Class racing was equally competitive, with Hooters, the Open 8.5 skippered by Craig Haslip, taking out the 8.5 multihull class, and Team Sex, the Magic 25 skippered by Anne Hirst, winning the sports boat division.
The Battle of the Clubs was claimed by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, with a combined effort from Sequesta, Extreme, Sham Pain, and Team Sex.
Racing, but unmistakably social
While results mattered, the tone of the event remained unmistakably social. From pre-race gatherings at Wynyard Pavilion to raft-ups in Jellicoe Harbour after racing, the Harbour Classic continues to strike a balance between competition and community.
“We’re all having a good time. Weather was fantastic… nice close field. Everybody was talking to each other.”
Crews also embraced the opportunity to bring new people into the sport, introducing less experienced sailors to racing in a supportive environment.
“This event is about getting people out and sailing… we had the music going, taking people out who haven’t done much sailing. That’s the fun part.”
That accessibility is a defining feature of the Harbour Classic. From high-performance multihulls to classic Kiwi designs and smaller trailer yachts, the fleet reflects the full spectrum of New Zealand boating.
A growing event with a clear message
The 2026 edition reinforced the Harbour Classic’s role as more than just a race. It is an invitation.
An invitation to race, to reconnect with the water, and to be part of a sailing community that values participation as much as podiums.
Even those reflecting on imperfect starts or mid-fleet finishes recognised the bigger picture.
“The position reflects the ability of all of us… but I was happy with the way we went.”
With strong turnout, tight racing, and a vibrant atmosphere ashore, the message from this year’s event is clear.
If you have a boat, or access to one, this is a race worth entering.
The PIC Harbour Classic continues to grow as a highlight on the Auckland sailing calendar, and if 2026 is anything to go by, next year’s edition will be even bigger.
Entries for 2027 are expected to attract another strong and diverse fleet, with organisers encouraging sailors of all experience levels to get involved.
