This summary is found in the December 2025 edition.
Ocean races inspired us, and our readers dived into stories of endurance, innovation, and a lifelong love of life on the water.
Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race: Every boat home – a Tasman well crossed
From grand ocean races to engineering milestones, the past month on Boating New Zealand reminded us why Kiwis love life on the water. Readers followed the closing chapters of two great races with a strong New Zealand connection, the PIC Harbour Classic and the Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race, as crews battled fickle winds, gear failures, and long overnight legs.
Across the performance spectrum, SailGP’s season finale build-up gripped fans as the Black Foils chased championship glory against the world’s best. Meanwhile, the America’s Cup Hall of Fame celebrated those who shaped sailing’s grandest contest, keeping its legacy alive.
Cádiz delivers drama as Emirates GBR seize Spain Sail Grand Prix glory
Closer to home, the sale of Sir Michael Hill’s expedition catamaran The Beast drew huge interest. Built in New Zealand by Profab Central Engineering and LOMOcean Design, the 39-metre aluminium twin-hull proved just how far Kiwi craftsmanship can go; a world-class explorer yacht ready for its next adventure.
The Beast: a boatie’s analysis of the sale of Michael Hill’s expedition icon
In Whakatāne, Extreme Boats turned heads with the announcement of a new ownership era led by James Horman. From its beginnings in a farm shed to exporting worldwide, the story resonated with readers proud of New Zealand innovation.
Whether it was history, horsepower, or horizon-chasing ambition, Kiwi readers spent the month exploring every side of what it means to be a boatie; competitive, creative, and always curious about what’s next.
