Boating New Zealand — January 2018

118 Boating New Zealand

ore than 20 dories, clinkers, launches,

yawls, skiffs and schooners were

on display at the Akaroa recreation

reserve and took part in the sail-

past. With a cruise ship in port there

was much interest in the gathering

from onlookers who marvelled at the collective detail,

workmanship and history.

Both New Zealand’s first Optimist (KZ1) and what is

thought to be the first R-class were on display. Nimrod

was built in 1934 and raced by the Webb brothers up until

WWII. She has remained in the Webb family since then and

was in surprisingly good condition with her original spars,

sails and hull.

The replica French fishing yawl Shi took

out best in show at the 10th anniversary

of the Akaroa Classic and Traditional

Boat regatta in early November.

M

feature

Classics on show

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY

BY MATT VANCE

CLASSICS

ENLIVEN

AKAROA