Over 70 keen sail sailors from Central Otago to the Far North are expected to compete in the Zephyr Nationals, to be hosted by the Howick Sailing Club in Auckland, March 12-15, 2026 – the 70th time they have been held!
The Zephyr is a single-handed one-design 3.35m centreboard yacht, designed by Des Townson in 1956, and remains the most active adult dinghy sailing class in New Zealand with up to 300 boats sailing. Built in wood for 65 years, then fibreglass, the class continues to grow. Class President John Kliffen says “the Zephyr is a very easy boat to sail, and it is great to see the growing number of younger sailors and women entering the class, giving the experienced grey-haired sailors some great competition!” The Howick Sailing Club, welcomes the Zephyr fleet, promising great sailing conditions in Tamaki Strait, right in front of the clubhouse.
The age range for the Nationals is likely to be from 20 to 80 years old, and the skill level is from social club sailors to past Olympians, but the one common denominator will be the camaraderie and fun all the sailors will enjoy!
Pictured is the lineup of Zephyrs at the 60th Nationals at Manly Beach, Whangaparaoa, in 2016.
More info: zephyr.org.nz and howicksailingclub.co.nz
