Sailors, tug boat drivers, paddlers and radio control sailors, mark your diaries for February 1st 2016. The first regatta on the Waitemata Harbour was an impromptu three-race event between rowing gigs, a match for a purse of five pounds between two whale-boats pulled by sailors, and another between two large canoes paddled by natives.
These days, at least 15 sailing and watersports clubs participate from all over Auckland, in boats of all shapes and sizes, including SUPs, remote controlled sailboats, dragonboats, tug boats, 100-year old yachts, and modern skiffs and harbour blasters.
“The Ports of Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta is good fun,” says Regatta spokesperson Eric Mahoney. “It’s a day that all eyes turn to the water, and we invite everyone that has a boat of just about any type, to join us.”
"Thank you very much to Ports of Auckland for its continued support."
The historical trophy cabinet is much prized, and earning your name on one of the silver cups, ensures a place in New Zealand sailing history for the winner.
The 176th Ports of Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta will take place on Monday 1 February 2016, and is one of a range of terrific events that will celebrate the long weekend in the city.
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