Frequently asked questions
From where to anchor, to what to show the guests; we've compiled a list of answers to the most frequently asked questions about the regatta. Read through below, or download the full document here.
91. Where will the race entrants berth?
Historically all of our superyachts preferred to anchor off Russell
2. How much does berthage cost for the event?
Berthage for the duration of the event will be dedicated anchor points, including the day before as part of the race entry fee, sponsored by Port Opua and Far North Holdings. For berthage outside of these dates please contact the Port Opua marina office email: enquiries@opuamarina.co.nz
3. How much is the race entry fee and what does it include?
NZ Millennium Cup Division 24m to 39.9m NZ$10,500 + GST
NZ Millennium Cup Division 40m to 44.9m $13,000 + GST
NZ Millennium Cup Division 45m and over $16,000 + GST
Prices include:
• x20 tickets to the Welcome Function on Monday 15th February at the Duke of Marlborough in Russell. Additional tickets can be purchased for $125 + GST each.
• x20 tickets to the NZ Millennium Cup function on Tuesday 16th February at the Duke of Marlborough in Russell . Additional tickets can be purchased for $125 + GST each.
• x20 tickets to the NZ Millennium Cup Prizegiving held on Thursday 18th February at the Duke of Marlborough in Russell. Additional tickets can be purchased for $125 + GST each.
4. Will there be skipper briefings?
Yes, there will be daily skipper briefings held at the Duke of Marlborough, Russell at 9am-9.30am on each of the race days.
5. Do I need a pilot if my vessel is under 500 tonnes?
No, but if you have any concerns please contact the Harbourmaster - Jim Lyle, at jiml@nrc.govt.nz or the NZ Millennium Cup team at info@millenniumcup.com
6. Do I need a pilot if my vessel is over 500 tonnes?
Yes, you will need a pilot to enter past Russell, this is a Maritime New Zealand rule. NZ Marine are working with the relevant government agencies to make this process as simple as possible for vessels.
There is a pilot exemption requirement mentioned in the Guide to Superyachts but this requires the skipper to undertake an exam and is geared towards vessels intending to spend some time in the area. Please note that pilot availability will be limited. To discuss the requirements contact the Harbourmaster, Jim Lyle, at jiml@nrc.govt.nz, or Port Opua marina office email: chris@fnhl.co.nz.
7. What anchorages are available nearby?
For vessels over 500 tonnes, anchorages are available outside the inner harbour. Anchorages are very weather dependant. Due to the large number of Islands and bays a sheltered anchorage can almost always be found, but distances may vary to Russell, depending on tender speed.
A good anchorage is found at Roberton Island, 35 14.223s 174 10.258E.
8. Where can we dock or tie up the tender?
We’ve made provision for secure tie up spots in Russell. We will advise closer to the race of where these are.
9. Where’s the nearest bunkering point?
Bunkering can take place from Opua Wharf. There is a restriction on truck weights to 26,000kg so any volumes in excess must be done independently (e.g. truck and trailer units bunkered separately). The wharf can accommodate any sized vessel.
10. Can we access shoreside services; garbage disposal etc?
Absolutely, we want your stay to be as easy and comfortable for your guests as possible, and we’ll ensure you have access to every facility. Skip bins will be provided for refuse at Russell.
11. How is the race handicapped?
The race is handicapped to the ORC offshore racing handicap system.
12. I need race crew; can you help?
Yes we can, let us know how many hands and what experience you’ll need and we’ll help direct you to the right people. New Zealand is home to many ex-America’s Cup crew, Olympic sailors and other skilled hands - and they’ll come with sense of humour in place, and determination to take line honours.
13. Is there an agent who can assist us?
Yes there is. Please let us know what you would like assistance with and we will put you in touch with one of our many experienced superyacht agents.
14. Is there someone available to assist me with crew accommodation, provisioning etc?
If you want to research and book your own accommodation requirements the Bay of Islands offer a fantastic range of places to stay, check out the options at Northland NZ, bookabach, Wotif or Jason's. Please let us know what you would like assistance with and we will put you in touch with one of our many experienced superyacht agents.
15. When will the official Notice of Race be released?
This has been released and is available for download here from millenniumcup.com
16. How long can the yacht stay and cruise New Zealand waters?
Cruising yachts can stay in New Zealand for 24-months under the temporary import entry (TIE), which was recently extended from 12 months to allow longer enjoyment of our waters.
17. Is there somewhere safe we can store goods from the yacht when we lighten the vessel for racing?
Onshore storage can be provided and details of this will be confirmed closer to the event. Please contact us if you'd like to discuss this; we'd be happy to help.
18. Why will the owners enjoy the New Zealand Millennium Cup?
The Cup is known for fun, fierce racing with a distinctly New Zealand flavour. On the course racing is hard fought, but with a healthy dose of camaraderie, and on-shore that camaraderie continues with beautifully- executed events to debate the days’ wins.
19. What else is in the region for owners?
Northland is famous for its ultra-luxe lodges, set privately in some of the world’s best coastal scenery. Owners can tee off at a David Harman-designed golf course at Kauri Cliffs, against a backdrop of Pacific Ocean, be delivered by tender to a lush, uninhabited island for a beachside lunch, explore ancient inland forests with 1200 year old trees or visit a local vineyard’s cellar door.
The Bay of Islands is formed of 144 islands, and was named by Jacques Cousteau as one of the top ten dive sites in the world for its abundance of friendly fish, caves, tunnels, archways and wrecks to explore. It’s a sub-tropical paradise with world-class big game fishing, scenic cruising, and exceptional sailing conditions.
20. Where’s the nearest airport for the owner to meet the yacht?
The nearest international airport is in Auckland; from there it’s a 40-minute flight to the Bay of Islands FBO airport, 50-minutes by helicopter from downtown Auckland or a three hour drive by car.
21. Where’s the nearest immigration clearance point?
Opua is a port of entry, and you can clear customs here into the country.
22. Where can I find more information about local bylaws?
There are several documents covering by-laws and other useful information to help superyachts make the most of their time in these waters, including the Northland harbourmaster offices comprehensive ‘Guide for Superyachts in Northland’.
Guide for Superyachts in Northland
New Zealand Destination e-book
Guide to Port Opua marina
Maritime New Zealand
23. Where can I find local weather and tide information?
For up to date tidal information, check metservice.com and for the latest weather, check metservice.com's Bay of Islands forecast.
Russell Radio also provides frequent local updates on VHF Ch19, and there is a now casting service provided by coastguard on VHF Ch 21.
24. Where can I find gasoline / petrol for tenders?
Gasoline / Petrol is available by jerry can from local fuel stations in Paihia, approximately 15 minutes drive from Opua marina and at the Russell town wharf.
Historically all of our superyachts preferred to anchor off Russell
2. How much does berthage cost for the event?
Berthage for the duration of the event will be dedicated anchor points, including the day before as part of the race entry fee, sponsored by Port Opua and Far North Holdings. For berthage outside of these dates please contact the Port Opua marina office email: enquiries@opuamarina.co.nz
3. How much is the race entry fee and what does it include?
NZ Millennium Cup Division 24m to 39.9m NZ$10,500 + GST
NZ Millennium Cup Division 40m to 44.9m $13,000 + GST
NZ Millennium Cup Division 45m and over $16,000 + GST
Prices include:
• x20 tickets to the Welcome Function on Monday 15th February at the Duke of Marlborough in Russell. Additional tickets can be purchased for $125 + GST each.
• x20 tickets to the NZ Millennium Cup function on Tuesday 16th February at the Duke of Marlborough in Russell . Additional tickets can be purchased for $125 + GST each.
• x20 tickets to the NZ Millennium Cup Prizegiving held on Thursday 18th February at the Duke of Marlborough in Russell. Additional tickets can be purchased for $125 + GST each.
4. Will there be skipper briefings?
Yes, there will be daily skipper briefings held at the Duke of Marlborough, Russell at 9am-9.30am on each of the race days.
5. Do I need a pilot if my vessel is under 500 tonnes?
No, but if you have any concerns please contact the Harbourmaster - Jim Lyle, at jiml@nrc.govt.nz or the NZ Millennium Cup team at info@millenniumcup.com
6. Do I need a pilot if my vessel is over 500 tonnes?
Yes, you will need a pilot to enter past Russell, this is a Maritime New Zealand rule. NZ Marine are working with the relevant government agencies to make this process as simple as possible for vessels.
There is a pilot exemption requirement mentioned in the Guide to Superyachts but this requires the skipper to undertake an exam and is geared towards vessels intending to spend some time in the area. Please note that pilot availability will be limited. To discuss the requirements contact the Harbourmaster, Jim Lyle, at jiml@nrc.govt.nz, or Port Opua marina office email: chris@fnhl.co.nz.
7. What anchorages are available nearby?
For vessels over 500 tonnes, anchorages are available outside the inner harbour. Anchorages are very weather dependant. Due to the large number of Islands and bays a sheltered anchorage can almost always be found, but distances may vary to Russell, depending on tender speed.
A good anchorage is found at Roberton Island, 35 14.223s 174 10.258E.
8. Where can we dock or tie up the tender?
We’ve made provision for secure tie up spots in Russell. We will advise closer to the race of where these are.
9. Where’s the nearest bunkering point?
Bunkering can take place from Opua Wharf. There is a restriction on truck weights to 26,000kg so any volumes in excess must be done independently (e.g. truck and trailer units bunkered separately). The wharf can accommodate any sized vessel.
10. Can we access shoreside services; garbage disposal etc?
Absolutely, we want your stay to be as easy and comfortable for your guests as possible, and we’ll ensure you have access to every facility. Skip bins will be provided for refuse at Russell.
11. How is the race handicapped?
The race is handicapped to the ORC offshore racing handicap system.
12. I need race crew; can you help?
Yes we can, let us know how many hands and what experience you’ll need and we’ll help direct you to the right people. New Zealand is home to many ex-America’s Cup crew, Olympic sailors and other skilled hands - and they’ll come with sense of humour in place, and determination to take line honours.
13. Is there an agent who can assist us?
Yes there is. Please let us know what you would like assistance with and we will put you in touch with one of our many experienced superyacht agents.
14. Is there someone available to assist me with crew accommodation, provisioning etc?
If you want to research and book your own accommodation requirements the Bay of Islands offer a fantastic range of places to stay, check out the options at Northland NZ, bookabach, Wotif or Jason's. Please let us know what you would like assistance with and we will put you in touch with one of our many experienced superyacht agents.
15. When will the official Notice of Race be released?
This has been released and is available for download here from millenniumcup.com
16. How long can the yacht stay and cruise New Zealand waters?
Cruising yachts can stay in New Zealand for 24-months under the temporary import entry (TIE), which was recently extended from 12 months to allow longer enjoyment of our waters.
17. Is there somewhere safe we can store goods from the yacht when we lighten the vessel for racing?
Onshore storage can be provided and details of this will be confirmed closer to the event. Please contact us if you'd like to discuss this; we'd be happy to help.
18. Why will the owners enjoy the New Zealand Millennium Cup?
The Cup is known for fun, fierce racing with a distinctly New Zealand flavour. On the course racing is hard fought, but with a healthy dose of camaraderie, and on-shore that camaraderie continues with beautifully- executed events to debate the days’ wins.
19. What else is in the region for owners?
Northland is famous for its ultra-luxe lodges, set privately in some of the world’s best coastal scenery. Owners can tee off at a David Harman-designed golf course at Kauri Cliffs, against a backdrop of Pacific Ocean, be delivered by tender to a lush, uninhabited island for a beachside lunch, explore ancient inland forests with 1200 year old trees or visit a local vineyard’s cellar door.
The Bay of Islands is formed of 144 islands, and was named by Jacques Cousteau as one of the top ten dive sites in the world for its abundance of friendly fish, caves, tunnels, archways and wrecks to explore. It’s a sub-tropical paradise with world-class big game fishing, scenic cruising, and exceptional sailing conditions.
20. Where’s the nearest airport for the owner to meet the yacht?
The nearest international airport is in Auckland; from there it’s a 40-minute flight to the Bay of Islands FBO airport, 50-minutes by helicopter from downtown Auckland or a three hour drive by car.
21. Where’s the nearest immigration clearance point?
Opua is a port of entry, and you can clear customs here into the country.
22. Where can I find more information about local bylaws?
There are several documents covering by-laws and other useful information to help superyachts make the most of their time in these waters, including the Northland harbourmaster offices comprehensive ‘Guide for Superyachts in Northland’.
Guide for Superyachts in Northland
New Zealand Destination e-book
Guide to Port Opua marina
Maritime New Zealand
23. Where can I find local weather and tide information?
For up to date tidal information, check metservice.com and for the latest weather, check metservice.com's Bay of Islands forecast.
Russell Radio also provides frequent local updates on VHF Ch19, and there is a now casting service provided by coastguard on VHF Ch 21.
24. Where can I find gasoline / petrol for tenders?
Gasoline / Petrol is available by jerry can from local fuel stations in Paihia, approximately 15 minutes drive from Opua marina and at the Russell town wharf.
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A superyacht regatta in one of the world's great natural playgrounds
All photos ©Jeff Brown Breed Media