Boating New Zealand

As Aotearoa marks Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu – National Volunteer Week (15–21 June), it’s time to recognise the more than 2,100 volunteers who keep Coastguard New Zealand running — 24/7, rain or shine. These are the people who drop everything when the call comes in. They’re crewing boats, coordinating rescue responses, monitoring radios, and scanning the skies. Without them, New Zealand would not have a functioning maritime search and rescue service.

Two people have died and...

What began as another glittering Boxing Day start from Sydney Harbour soon turned into one of the most dramatic and tragic opening nights in the history of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. The 79th edition of this iconic offshore contest saw 104 yachts set off, including a growing contingent of double-handed entries, but within the first 24 hours, the fleet was battered by severe conditions that led to multiple life-threatening emergencies, two fatalities, one man overboard, and a string of retirements.

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) has released the findings of an independent review into the three serious incidents that marred the 2024 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. The 79th edition of the offshore classic was one of the most challenging in recent memory, with two fatalities, a man overboard (MOB) incident, three other serious injuries, and a series of weather-related emergencies occurring within the first 24 hours of racing.

After a two-year hiatus, the New Caledonia Groupama Race is back for 2025 — and anticipation is running high. This offshore circumnavigation of New Caledonia is more than just another bluewater yacht race. At 654 nautical miles, the anti-clockwise loop from Nouméa through the Grand Passage is regarded by many as one of the most tactically challenging and visually stunning offshore events in the world. With two New Zealand boats on the start line — V5 Racing and Motorboat II — the Kiwi presence is strong and competitive.