Tawera, impeccably sailed, again dominated a lengthier 27nm course on day three of racing, taking line honours for a third consecutive day and bringing home the NZ Millennium Cup 2017.
 
Assured of generous sunshine, blue skies and the promise of good winds, the race committee selected a lengthier 27nm course that would see competitors round the extremity of the Nine Pin twice and flit past both Motuterakihi Island and Whale Rock.
 
Coming into the final day of racing, Pacific Division competitors, Antaeus and Steinlager 2, were tied on points. Rumours of an extensive tactical defence strategy to retain the Pacific Cup emerged from Steinlager 2’s camp after the skippers briefing.
 
With an even tighter handicap than the day prior in place for the Mark Foy start, Tawera and Antaeus, again nailed faultless starts – an underlined statement of the race to come.
 
The honour of best start in the series, reserved for the final day’s racing as confirmed by the race committee’s Dennis Corbett, was, however, Cavallo’s. Galloping over the start within a half second of the gunshot, it was clear to see the starting practice runs she had committed to over the week had paid dividends.     
 
Silvertip then Farfalla, gave chase – both harnessing the wind to drive out into the mouth of the Bay.
 
Racing on the day was marked by a thrilling series of combative boat-to-boat tacking duels spread out across the Bay. 
 
Approaching the Nine Pin, a bout of jousting between Silvertip and Cavallo left spectators white-knuckled. Both on a starboard tack with Cavallo to weather, the VHF crackled to life as Silvertip’s skipper, Blair MacLeod, called out to Cavallo to give room in order to avoid the glittering grey hull running aground on the craggy rocks of the headlands. Giving a hair’s breadth of room, Cavallo tacked first to round the Nine Pin, pushing Silvertip to the outer lane as they passed the iconic landmark. As they stormed out to Red Head Bouy, Antaeus passed them returning to the Nine Pin after successfully rounding Red Head, holding a lead on Steinlager 2 that still reflected the approximate 20 minute starting handicap.
 
Just as Silvertip surged in front of Cavallo, a sudden burst of colour punctuated the skyline as Cavallo’s red, white and blue kite broke into two.
 
Another fiercely contested tacking match between Pumula and Janice of Wyoming took place and later Pumula was pulled in by Farfalla approaching Motuterakihi Buoy.
 
But no kind wind in favour of the remaining fleet could foil Tawera in her pursuit of line honours and ultimately series win of the NZ Millennium Cup nor Antaeus in taking out line honours and series win of the Pacific Cup.
 
At the prizegiving held in the evening at the historic Duke of Marlborough, famous for entertaining rascals and reprobates since 1827, Antaeus’ part-owner, Charles St. Clair Brown, commented, “the wind gods were kind to us, and Steinlager 2 were especially gracious in letting us slip away”.  
 
Janice of Wyoming took second place in the last race, securing the prestigious second place in the NZ Millennium Cup, with Farfalla third in the last race also securing third in the overall series.
 
Platinum sponsor Orams Marine’s managing director, Craig Park, took the dais and thanked long-term competitors, Antaeus, Steinlager 2, Silvertip and Janice of Wyoming, while New Zealand’s greatest yachting ambassador, Peter Montgomery (MBE) took the opportunity to thank the visiting yachts for their contribution to another excellent edition of the NZ Millennium Cup, the third held in the beautiful Bay of Islands. To crown the proceedings, competitors toasted world-renowned designer Ron Holland, technical advisor aboard Holland-designed Tawera, in advance of his 70th birthday.
 
As a focal point for both the local industry and for the global brands looking for more exposure in Asia Pacific, the NZ Millennium Cup has welcomed a number of sponsors on board, including platinum sponsor Orams Marine, and gold sponsors Smuggler Marine, Far North Holdings – Bay of Islands Marina, Doyle Sails New Zealand and Yachting Developments.
 
Silver sponsors include OnFire Design, Breed Media, COAST New Zealand, Events Clothing and Southern Spars/North Sails.

Thanks also goes to Tourism NZ, Propspeed, Holton Marine, Robinson Interiors, McMullen & Wing, Power Equipment, Q-West and Lancer Industries. We also extend our thanks to suppliers, Rogue Society, East Imperial, and Mount Gay Rum, alongside our media partners Superyacht World and Ocean Media.

​Dominating an exciting 21nm short course that saw competitors round the Nine Pin twice and wind changes challenge seasoned tacticians, Tawera has again taken line honours
 
Crossing the line 11 minutes in advance of her closest challenger, the Pacific Division’s Antaeus, Tawera commanded racing on NZ Marine Race Day of the 2017 New Zealand Millennium Cup.
 
“With a healthy ten knot southerly at the start, but forecast to swing around 180degrees to the north, today was always going to be testing for the tacticians and helmsmen,” said Peter Busfield, CEO NZ Marine Export Group.
 
That southerly wind, an outgoing tide and a 300metre wind shadow in the lee of a looming cruise liner anchored 200-metres from the start line, presented a unique set of conditions that allowed no margin for error.
 
First and second over the Mark Foy start, Tawera and Antaeus, set the tone of their race as they reached past the committee boat hoisting their spinnakers for faultless starts. Their dual finishes of first place in their respective divisions, the NZ Millennium Cup and Pacific Cup, was a credit to the tactical nous of the skilled sailors onboard.
 
Third over the start, Pumula, fell foul of the wind shadow, languishing on the start line. Seeing an opportunity, Janice of Wyoming deftly slipped around her windward side and bucked forward – stealing any remaining wind Pumula may have had. Cowboy gennaker unfurling, Janice of Wyoming strode out in front.
 
Starting within three minutes of one another, Silvertip, Cavallo and Farfalla nailed starting manoeuvres that saw each hoist their spinnakers as they crossed the starting line. Grappling against one another for an early advantage, intense match racing ensued between Tapeka Point and Roberton Island.
 
Flitting across the water in a series of artful moves befitting her name, Farfalla (‘Butterfly’) edged past Silvertip to windward and Cavallo to leeward, gaining buoy room at the Orams Marine mark.
 
Striking out toward the craggily majestic Nine Pin from the mark, Cavallo showed her speed and overtook Silvertip.
 
As a helicopter buzzed around the great rock, schools of Trevally, Kawhai and Mao Mao dancing on the surface, the wind suddenly emptied from the mouth of the Bay. Farfalla, Cavallo, Silvertip and Pumula, two minutes between them, fought through an area of little breeze. Janice of Wyoming wasn’t safe either, becalmed with the four yachts closing in behind her, while ahead Steinlager 2 approached the next mark, already rounded by Antaeus and Tawera out in front.
 
New entrants in 2017, Farfalla and classically-elegant Pumula, benefitting from a new whisper of wind, closed in on Janice of Wyoming, passing the seasoned campaigner as they moved toward Motuterakihi Island Buoy.
 
As the glassy water shifted, and white caps began to appear from the building northerly seabreeze, Tawera, hull newly painted white, could be seen glistening in the distance, as well as Antaeus’ distinctive red kite looming closely behind her. Having already rounded the Nine Pin for the second time, they were on the home straight.  
 
Harnessing the change in conditions, America’s Cup campaigner and Silvertip’s tactician Tom Schnackenberg guided her from last position to second, leading a radically reordered following fleet comprised of Farfalla, Cavallo, Pumula and Janice of Wyoming.
 
Farfalla gained buoy room on Cavallo at the Motuterakihi buoy, only to lose her lead on the larger yacht as Cavallo took the inside track immediately past the buoy. However, going into the Nine Pin for the last time, Farfalla overtook Cavallo once more.
 
In a close duel, Farfalla, biting at Silvertip’s tail, was kept in check on the home run by way of an aggressive defence strategy, until a decision by Silvertip to split gybes saw Farfalla gain the lead when they met again. Farfalla cinched second place in the Millennium Cup division, closely followed over the line by Silvertip, and Steinlager 2 in the Pacific Cup division.
 
Cavallo finished sixth ahead of Janice of Wyoming, who overhauled Pumula in the race for the finish.
 
The battle for the Pacific Cup is now tied between Antaeus and Steinlager 2 ,as they go into day three of the regatta.
 
As a focal point for both the local industry and for the global brands looking for more exposure in Asia Pacific, the NZ Millennium Cup has welcomed a number of sponsors on board, including platinum sponsor Orams Marine, and gold sponsors Smuggler Marine, Far North Holdings – Bay of Islands Marina, Doyle Sails New Zealand and Yachting Developments.
 
Silver sponsors include OnFire Design, Breed Media, COAST New Zealand, Events Clothing and Southern Spars/North Sails.

Thanks also goes to Tourism NZ, Propspeed, Holton Marine, Robinson Interiors, McMullen & Wing, Power Equipment, Q-West and Lancer Industries. We also extend our thanks to suppliers, Rogue Society, East Imperial, and Mount Gay Rum, alongside our media sponsors Superyacht World and Ocean Media. 

The first day of the world’s most southerly superyacht regatta, saw Tawera take line honours, on a bright, breezy day of racing.
 
Reigning champion, Tawera, crossed the line first today on the Orams Marine Race Day of the 2017 New Zealand Millennium Cup.

The 28-metre ketch secured her win with New Zealand sailing icon, Chris Dickson, and her designer Ron Holland onboard, giving owner and experienced helmsman Mike
Mahoney the tactical edge.
 
Handicapped to International Superyacht Rule (ISYR) by Jim Teeters, Tawera’s Mark Foy starting position saw her followed by 37-metre Pumula and then returning campaigner Janice of Wyoming; who stormed between two visiting cruise ships before crossing the start with dolphins leaping across her bow.

The Bay of islands has become Silvertip’s hunting ground, and hunt she did; crossing the start smoothly and setting off in pursuit of the three yachts in front of her. In pursuit of her were Farfalla and Cavallo; rated by the handicap as the fastest yachts in the fleet.

“What else could we ask for,” said North Sails’, Richard Bicknell, sailing on Janice of Wyoming. “It was perfect. Once the breeze kicked in we had up to 17 knots of breeze at times - it was great racing.”
 
Rounding the Orams Marine buoy, 43-metre Cavallo showed a quick turn of speed as she closed on Farfalla and Silvertip down to the next mark.

Silvertip took an inside line while Farfalla tacked to seaward as they headed for the Nine Pin. Approaching the mark, there was little between them, with a daring manoeuvre from Silvertip seeing her cut sharply in to the landmark. However it was Farfalla who carried the breeze and emerged in the lead as they pulled away from the Nine Pin.

Farfalla successfully covered Silvertip to the Motuterakihi buoy in a close duel.

“The breeze was a lot stiffer than forecasted and it made for some great racing. It was fantastic to see the race between Farfalla and Silvertip,” says Orams Marine’s Craig Park, who’s looking forward to seeing individual yachts use the changing conditions to their advantage with lighter breeze forecast throughout the rest of the week.
 
Out in front, Tawera was rounding the Red Head and heading for the Orams Marine buoy for the final time, with Janice of Wyoming’s distinctive bucking bronco gennaker visible on the horizon as she pursued her fellow returning campaigner.

Pumula was crossing the Bay towards the Red Head with Janice of Wyoming in her sights, and flanked by the Pacific Division’s Steinlager 2.

Onboard Pumula, Doyle Sails New Zealand’s, Matt Bridge was racing as technician. “The day went really well, we got lucky with the downwind legs. The wind shifted to a higher angle than we’d seen in the morning, which meant that not having a spinnaker wasn’t such a disadvantage to us.”

With Tawera already around the final mark and heading for home, the fleet was dotted across the Bay behind her. Pumula led Farfalla, Silvertip and Cavallo back from the Orams Marine buoy to the final mark. Janice was already rounding the mark, letting that distinctive gennaker fly again, while Antaeus led her Pacific Division-mate, Steinlager 2 around the mark.

Janice of Wyoming made up time on the last leg, but she couldn’t quite catch Tawera who crossed the finish two boat lengths ahead. Behind Janice came Steinlager 2, having overhauled Antaeus to come home first in the Pacific Division. Pumula was third across the line in the Millennium Cup, beating Farfalla by seconds, before Silvertip and Cavallo came thundering home.

“It was a classic Bay of Islands day - dolphins in the bow wave, and a breeze of between seven to 17 knots from the northwest providing passing lane opportunities for articulate technicians as they navigated around the course,” says Peter Busfield, CEO of the NZ Marine Export Group.

As a focal point for both the local industry and for the global brands looking for more exposure in Asia Pacific, the NZ Millennium Cup has welcomed a number of sponsors on board, including platinum sponsor Orams Marine, and gold sponsors Smuggler Marine, Far North Holdings – Bay of Islands Marina, Doyle Sails New Zealand and Yachting Developments.
 
Silver sponsors include OnFire Design, Breed Media, COAST New Zealand, Events Clothing and Southern Spars/North Sails.

Thanks also goes to Tourism NZ, Propspeed, Holton Marine, Robinson Interiors, McMullen & Wing, Power Equipment, Q-West and Lancer Industries. We also extend our thanks to suppliers, Rogue Society, East Imperial, and Mount Gay Rum, alongside our media sponsors Superyacht World and Ocean Media. 

The South Pacific’s premier regatta is officially underway, marked by a welcome function hosting owners, crew and sponsors of the world’s most southerly superyacht regatta.
 
The 2017 New Zealand Millennium Cup was officially declared open this evening, 24 January, with a welcome function kicking off festivities.
 
With sailing icon Peter Montgomery’s well-known voice drawing the fleet into the historic waterside town of Russell, owners, captains, crew and industry came to celebrate the start of the world’s most southerly superyacht regatta.

The regatta, staged by the NZ Marine Export Group, is held in New Zealand’s Bay of Islands; one of the world’s great natural playgrounds. The fleet was welcomed to the regatta at the Duke of Marlborough; renowned for entertaining adventurers, reprobates and rascals since the birth of the modern New Zealand nation.
 
From 24 to 27 January, eight yachts will battle it out in the beautiful surrounds, through challenging courses that make the most of the stunning scenery, and amidst over 100 TP52’s and sports boats competing in Bay of Islands Sailing Week. The ninth NZ Millennium Cup will see repeat campaigners face off against new entries in the race for the title.
 
40-metre Janice of Wyoming, returns to the Cup for the sixth time, with the Ed Dubois design’s familiarity with New Zealand waters, and her fiercely competitive crew making her one to watch on the water.
 
Her fellow Alloy Yachts build, and 2016 winner, Tawera (ex Catalyst) will again join the fleet, with owners Mike and Tracy Mahoney set to defend the title as she returns to the fleet for the second time. This year she will race with her designer, Ron Holland, aboard her.
 
Silvertip cuts a recognisable figure on the course. Built by gold sponsor Yachting Developments, her shark-like ability to hunt down her competition after a Mark Foy start is legendary among spectators.

The three new entries of Pumula, Cavallo and Farfalla won’t make it easy on the experienced campaigners though. The name of 37-metre Pumula, may mean rest in Zulu, but the Royal Huisman is sure to show a strong turn of speed on the course.

Southern Wind’s Farfalla, at 31.78metres, is a yacht built for performance which will cut a sleek figure amongst the boats on the Bay, while high speed, carbon performance yacht, 43-metre Cavallo, is sure to thrill spectators.

New Zealand legend, Steinlager 2, is set to thrill local crowds, as she races around the course in top condition after her extensive 2014 refit with gold sponsor, Yachting Developments. Joining her in the Pacific Division is returning 2015 entry; Antaeus. She, along with Steinlager 2, will have a wardrobe of Doyle New Zealand sails to see her around the course.
 
As a focal point for both the local industry and for the global brands looking for more exposure in the growing Asia Pacific market, the NZ Millennium Cup has welcomed a number of sponsors on board, including platinum sponsor Orams Marine, and gold sponsors Smuggler Marine, Far North Holdings – Bay of Islands Marina, Doyle Sails New Zealand and Yachting Developments.
 
Silver sponsors include OnFire Design, Breed Media, COAST New Zealand, Events Clothing and Southern Spars/North Sails.

Thanks also goes to Tourism NZ, Propspeed, Holton Marine, Robinson Interiors, McMullen & Wing, Power Equipment, Q-West and Lancer Industries. We also extend our thanks to suppliers, Rogue Society, East Imperial, and Mount Gay Rum, alongside our media sponsors Superyacht World and Ocean Media.

The New Zealand Millennium Cup kicks off on 24 January, with a fleet raring to race in one of the world’s great natural playgrounds.
 
New Zealand’s Bay of Islands will next week play host to a fleet of adventurous superyachts gathering to race in the world’s most southerly superyacht regatta.
 
From 24 to 27 of January, eight yachts will battle it out in the beautiful Bay of Islands, across challenging courses which weave through a cruising ground of uninhabited islets and emerald waters. The ninth NZ Millennium Cup will see repeat campaigners face off against new entries in the race for the title.
 
2016 winner, Tawera (ex Catalyst) will again join the fleet, with owners Mike and Tracy Mahoney ready to race hard to keep the title belonging to their 28-metre, Alloy Yachts build.
 
Fellow Alloy Yachts build, 40-metre Janice of Wyoming, knows the Millennium Cup well, competing in the last five regattas. The Ed Dubois design launched in 2005 and has sailed all over the globe, but her familiarity with New Zealand waters, her Cup experience, and her fiercely competitive crew mean she’s one to watch on the water.
 
Built by gold sponsor Yachting Developments, 33.8metre Silvertip is a stunning high-performance sloop launched in 2002 to much fanfare – winning both the International Superyacht Society award and the Showboats Design Award for Best Sailing Yacht upon her launch.
 
The three new entries of Pumula, Cavallo and Farfalla won’t make it easy on the experienced campaigners though. The name of 37-metre Pumula, may mean rest in Zulu, but the Royal Huisman is sure to show a strong turn of speed on the course.

Southern Wind’s Farfalla, at 31.78metres, is a yacht built for performance which will cut a sleek figure amongst the boats on the Bay, while high speed, carbon performance yacht, 43-metre Cavallo, is sure to thrill spectators.

New Zealand legend, Steinlager 2, is set to thrill local crowds, as she races around the course in top condition after her extensive 2014 refit with gold sponsor, Yachting Developments.

Joining her in the Pacific Division is returning 2015 entry; Antaeus. The yacht’s owner and crew thoroughly enjoy the chance to support the NZ Marine Export Group, while sailing alongside superyachts in the magnificent Bay of Islands. She, along with Steinlager 2, will have a wardrobe of Doyle New Zealand sails to see her around the course.

The New Zealand Millennium Cup is organised by the NZ Marine Export Group and a group of dedicated New Zealand superyacht figures. With three days of high quality racing, exceptional hospitality and stunning views in one of the most picturesque cruising destinations in the world, this event is truly unique and a must-see.
 
As a focal point for both the local industry and for the global brands looking for more exposure in the growing Asia Pacific market, the NZ Millennium Cup has welcomed a number of sponsors on board, including platinum sponsor Orams Marine, and gold sponsors Smuggler Marine, Far North Holdings, Doyle Sails New Zealand and Yachting Developments.
 
Silver sponsors include OnFire Design, Breed Media, COAST New Zealand, Events Clothing and Southern Spars/North Sails.

Thanks also goes to Tourism NZ, Propspeed, Holton Marine, Robinson Interiors, McMullen & Wing, Power Equipment, Q-West and Lancer Industries. We also extend our thanks to suppliers, Rogue Society, East Imperial, and Mount Gay Rum, alongside our media sponsors Superyacht World and Ocean Media.

Two new superyacht entries have been announced for the NZ Millennium Cup (24-27 January), with local industry members reporting the event leads to direct economic growth for New Zealand. 

Two new superyacht entries, Pumula and Cavallo, have entered the 2017 NZ Millennium Cup. 

Pumula has traversed the world since her launch in 2012, voyaging 52,000nm to the earth’s extremes. The 37m Royal Huisman-build has travelled to far-flung climes, from Spitsbergen to Antarctica, and Cape Horn to Alaska, before setting her sights on New Zealand.

Winner of the World Superyacht Award’s Sailing Yacht of the Year 2013, Pumula is now en-route to New Zealand from Polynesia. 2017 will mark a return to New Zealand’s waters for captain Michael Van Bregt who spent a summer season in Russell 25 years ago, though this will be the owners’ first time in NZ. Pumula’s entry was spurred by a recommendation from another new entrant, Baltic Yachts-built, 42.9-metre Cavallo.

"The owner of Pumula is an acquaintance of the owner of Cavallo and we ran into each other in Polynesia,” says captain Van Bregt. “The owner of Cavallo emphasised the relaxed, social nature of the event." 

Another yacht of an intrepid ilk, Cavallo sailed from the Caribbean in May and spent the season cruising in French Polynesia. She will be available for charter in NZ after the 2017 NZ Millennium Cup in January, and in Fiji from April 2017.

Although it is the first time she will sail the Bay of Islands, the 2017 event will serve as a homecoming for Cavallo’s captain, Jake Reid. 

“I grew up sailing in the Bay of Islands and skippered Thalia in previous NZ Millennium Cup editions,” says Reid.

This home-grown knowledge coupled with the fitting of a new main sail, and a rigging overhaul in New Zealand, will serve as a double threat as Cavallo makes a play for the Cup.

An event steeped in an ethos of giving owners and crew something more when they travel to New Zealand’s unique climes, and an experience beyond that of the normal regatta circuit, the Cup’s reputation has been steadily growing internationally.

“Interest in the NZ Millennium Cup at the recent Monaco Yacht Show was palpable,” says Craig Park of platinum sponsor, Orams Marine.

“It was a pleasure to hear captains reminiscing about the unique spirit of the Cup and their experience of New Zealand - notably 2015 winner Silencio. We are proud to be a part of an event that we can see grow in its new location in the inimitable Bay of Islands.”

“The history of the NZ Millennium Cup was driven by vessels visiting New Zealand for the America’s Cup. NZ Marine saw an opportunity to run an event that showcased our cruising grounds further – an event that encapsulated why the journey was worth the effort,” says Ian Cook of gold sponsor, Yachting Developments. 

The regatta also pays dividends in its impact on New Zealand’s marine businesses as well as the local economy. 
“Along with spectacular racing, the economic injection into our local communities is also very much appreciated,” says Tania McInnes, deputy mayor of the Far North District Council.  

“The Bay of Islands is focused on growing our visitor market. We want our visitors to leave with lifelong memories, having had a thoroughly enjoyable and authentic experience. This event helps showcase the area and all the magic it has to offer."

​That economic injection is something seen both outside the local superyacht industry, and within it.

”The NZ Millennium Cup definitely brings in work for Doyle Sails," says Doyle Sails New Zealand’s superyacht sail co-ordinator Matt Bridge.

"When you compare the experience of two hours in the pressure cooker of a pitch environment, (often within an office rather than out on the water) with the week you spend up in the relaxed Bay of Islands, racing and socialising with our products on display, you can immediately see the benefit the NZ Millennium Cup brings.”

Park agrees.

“We see the NZ Millennium Cup and the natural deadline it sets as an excellent way to sea trial work after going through a refit period. This has been particularly true of Janice of Wyoming, where work we have undertaken has been specifically in preparation for the NZ Millennium Cup.” 

Six months out from the commencement of the NZ Millennium Cup 2017 (24 – 27 January) and momentum is building faster than recent years with a series of rapid-fire early entries from Janice of Wyoming, Steinlager 2, Tawera and Antaeus. Commentators speculate this is due to unprecedented media interest in 2016’s regatta and a growing appreciation of combining racing, cruising and refit work on New Zealand’s shores.
 
“Last year’s regatta saw the largest fleet race since the dawn of the millennium in 2000 and enjoyed media reach of over 31 million people,” says NZ Marine Export Group chairman Stuart Robinson. “2017’s event is expected to swell in rank and coverage yet again.”
 
Fresh from the Superyacht Cup in Palma, platinum sponsor Orams Marine’s managing director Craig Park says that “interest in racing south has matured into a driver - seasoned skippers and owners are looking to our shores for their next adventure as well as refit work.”
 
“We have another fully booked season with several high quality boats coming to us for refit or returning to Orams Marine Village; we see this as reflecting a growing understanding of what New Zealand offers in terms of both Kiwi craftsmanship and cruising. Two more superyachts we have undertaken significant refits on are tipped to enter the 2017 NZ Millennium Cup within the next few weeks (one of which will be new to the regatta). We look forward to giving crew a fantastic event to enjoy when they come down.”
 
This theme of growth and the recognition of New Zealand as a premiere destination for combining racing, refit and new build is echoed by gold sponsors Yachting Developments. “With our new build of 33.83m sloop Cygnus Montanus launching recently in Auckland, we see the event as being an excellent way to attract interest and investment in the New Zealand marine industry,” says Ian Cook, managing director, Yachting Developments.    
 
In a move to ensure last year’s winner Tawera “sails to her potential,” owner Mike Mahoney plans to undertake an upgrade of systems here in New Zealand whilst ridding the Ron Holland-designed ketch of excess fuel and cruising gear. In addition, the world-renowned designer himself is set to return to New Zealand to compete in the regatta aboard Tawera.
 
Sporting sail wardrobes fitted by gold sponsor Doyle Sails New Zealand, Yachting Developments’ alumni Steinlager 2, and Antaeus have both announced their return to the Pacific Cup division.  
 
“Remaining true to Steinlager 2’s roots, we’ll have a mix of world-renowned Kiwi sailors aboard along with three positions for promising young sailors to test their mettle in our defence of the Pacific Cup title,” says skipper Alistair Moore. “We’re tuning our sail wardrobe this year in preparation for another fiercely contested race.”
 
Antaeus, now jointly-owned by Charles St. Clair Brown and Peter Harris, has had a recent upgrade to her systems in Auckland. With several "sailing legends" due to sail aboard her, competition is heating up in a regatta that will combine a mix of seasoned campaigners and up-and-coming new crew. 
 
“The NZ Millennium Cup is a fantastic showcase of both New Zealand's marine industry and the beautiful surroundings that visiting superyachts can enjoy,” says Doyle Sails New Zealand’s managing director Chris McMaster. “We are proud to have been long-term supporters of the Cup and look forward to 2017's regatta.”
 
Famous for whisking the owner of Kealoha to the doors of a waiting helicopter after finishing seconds behind regatta-winner Tawera last year, gold sponsor Smuggler Marine’s amphibious tenders will be returning as the event’s chase boats.  
 
“We’re passionate about sharing our beautiful coast-line and warm Kiwi hospitality with our guests. We look forward to offering a truly door-to-door service on our unique amphibious craft,” says Smuggler Marine’s managing director David Pringle.
 
Gold sponsor Far North Holdings’ chairman Ross Blackman is equally enthusiastic to introduce competitors to the “unequalled lure of this subtropical micro-region comprising 144 islands with white-sand beaches, turqoise waters and abundant marine life.”
 
Onfire, a full service branding and digital design agency specialising in the marine industry, will also return as silver sponsors. 

A gracious Bay of Islands morning greeted the NZ Millennium Cup 2016 fleet on NZ Marine Race Day; the second day of racing. Resplendent sun glittering on emerald waters replaced the sulky clouds that had threatened the day prior. After the 19 nautical mile warm up of Day 1, the promise of good wind conditions enabled the pack to enjoy a longer day on the water with a 26 nautical mile course that would truly test the prowess of the fleet. ​

The blue skies and strong sunshine perfectly offset the stunning Bay of Islands surroundings, with clear bright waters offset by the lush green coastline and white sand beaches. Yachts were joined in the race by some of New Zealand’s beautiful marine life with leaping dolphins and hammerhead sharks streaking through the water alongside the painted hulls. For many competitors it is this unbeatable natural setting paired with the camaraderie and warm Kiwi welcome that makes the NZ Millennium Cup so loved. 
As the armada came upon the Nine Pin many yachts battled with dropping winds. Allegro were the first whose sails were to be emptied, then Steinlager II with Antaeus eyeing them up from behind before falling afoul to the same conditions. Whilst Silvertip gave the Nine Pin a wide berth, Janice of Wyoming hair-pinned around with a resounding gasp. 

The yachts finally built up speed to move around the course once again but then the wind shifted 180 degrees from a westerly to a nor’easterly as the fleet traversed from the Orams Marine Buoy to the Motuterakihi Island Buoy. The art of war was played out amongst the crew tacticians. The first day under their belt the crews were now well into their stride, with maneuvers being expertly executed and yachts rounding the marks with precision, making every important second count. 

Although last off the start line Silvertip made good on their reputation as fierce racers, quickly finding their legs and gaining on the fleet, overtaking boat after boat to claim a well-deserved second place overall. But this was Tawera’s day and she could not be caught, harnessing the wind to carry her round the course and take the victory. 
Kealoha kept their focus throughout, holding off Janice of Wyoming and overtaking fellow Hoek design Shamoun to claim third place. Meanwhile, a close battle was underway at the finish line. Janice of Wyoming proved their mastery of the last minute overtake, demonstrated with their win on day one, gaining on Shamoun as they approached the finish line and stealing fourth place at the last minute. 
In the Pacific Class Steinlager enjoyed the stronger winds and were uncatchable, crossing the line first overall and taking line honours. Allegro comfortably held her place in towards the front of the fleet throughout the day, crossing the line third overall to take second place in the Pacific Class. Antaeus sailed consistently but were unable to catch the frontrunners, taking third place.
With day two down it is all to play for in an historically unique day for the NZ Millennium Cup; four of the five boats are tied equal first place on five points each.

Crews enjoyed an informal social evening with a barbeque and drinks at race HQ to celebrate the end of another exciting day on the water.
The NZ Millennium Cup is supported by a number of sponsors, including platinum sponsor Orams Marine, and gold sponsors Smuggler Marine, Far North Holdings/Port Opua, Doyle Sails New Zealand and Yachting Developments

Silver sponsors include OnFire Design, Dubois, Breed Media, Integrated Marine Group, Robinson Interiors and Southern Spars/North Sails.

Thanks also goes to Holton Marine, Maxwell Marine, Whiting Power Systems, Harken New Zealand – Fosters, Events Clothing, Kit Carlier Design, McMullen & Wing, Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders, Q-West, NZ Marine and Composites Industry Training Organisation, Mount Gay Rum, COAST New Zealand, Hancocks and our media sponsors The Superyacht Owner and Ocean Media.

Janice of Wyoming has taken line honours in a muscular performance on Orams Marine Race Day.
 
Glowering clouds greeted the fleet of the 2016 NZ Millennium Cup as they moved off into a Bay of Islands morning on this; the first day of the regatta.

With mist filling the valleys of the Bay, the fleet of eight lined up to race the world’s most southerly superyacht regatta. Wind conditions meant race officials selected a short course for racing. Course three would take entries from the mouth of the Bay of Islands, around the Orams Marine buoy, out to picturesque Roberton Island with its distinctive horseshoe lagoon, before flinging them out to Ninepin Island, back to the Orams Marine buoy and then off to the finish line.

Classen-built Shamoun was first over the line at 11.30, blasting a fast path down to the start, made all the more impressive for the last minute leap aboard by a crew member from a tender flying alongside. With a quick flick around the committee boat she was off and racing for the mouth of the Bay.

The 33 metre was followed shortly by 28-metre Tawera, before the three yachts in the Pacific Division - Antaeus, Allegro and Steinlager - and then fellow Claasen-build Kealoha set off in hot pursuit.

Seasoned campaigners Silvertip and Janice of Wyoming prowled the start line, with the cruise ship looming in front of Paihia adding perspective to the agility of the two Dubois-designed yachts. The two heavyweights were packed to the gunnels with competitive sailors and raring to go.

At 12.05, Janice of Wyoming stormed for the line, bearing down on the committee boat with an aggressive bent that left no doubt as to her intentions in the race. Yachting Developments’ -built Silvertip followed at 12.20, and the race was on.
 
Janice of Wyoming was beating a wide line to the first mark, while the rest of the fleet had tacked earlier and were beating a line for the Orams Marine buoy, on the northern side of Roberton Island. The rising of Shamoun’s distinctive red spinnaker signalled that the first across the line had been the first to round the mark, though she was being hunted down by a fleet hungry for line honours.

By the second mark, Steinlager II had overhauled the fleet, with 27.5-metre Kealoha close behind, then Allegro; looking aggressive in chase.
 
However there was a larger threat coming from behind. Janice of Wyoming outstripped Tawera and Shamoun as they rounded the mark and was off with the leaders in her sights. The 40-metre made a sharp tack to beat upwind after the leaders, who had already executed a neat turn towards the Ninepin.

The Pacific Division’s 20-metre, Antaeus passed Tawera, before the larger yacht made a swift tack. The fleet had all turned for the Ninepin when Silvertip rounded the mark, showing clearly just how much ground she’d made, while at the head of the pack Steinlager 2 was extending her lead over Kealoha.
 
Approaching the Ninepin, Tawera fell prey to Janice of Wyoming, and then the fleet was off and racing for the last mark and then home.
 
Steinlager 2 made winning the Pacific Division look easy as she crossed first, with her fleet of Allegro and Antaeus working their way up the Bay.

Kealoha held her lead in the Millennium Cup division as they turned down the Bay, but it was not to be. Janice of Wyoming had sailed a powerful race and, on the stretch for home, with the big cowboy spinnaker flying, she crossed the line a triumphant first.
 
Silvertip was flying down towards the line, but Kealoha held her lead to take second place, with Silvertip close behind. Tawera’s big white spinnaker with the distinctive blue motif was visible on the horizon as she and Shamoun appeared behind the islands of the Bay to the spectators on the line.

It was Tawera who crossed the line ahead however, to cheers from the committee boat. The Shamoun was charging for the line to bring the day’s racing to a close. The Claasen classic sped for the line with all the grace you’d expect from the last classic superyacht built in the 20th century.

The Cup is supported by a number of sponsors, including platinum sponsor Orams Marine, and gold sponsors Smuggler Marine, Far North Holdings/Port Opua, Doyle Sails New Zealand and Yachting Developments.
 
Silver sponsors include OnFire Design, Dubois, Breed Media, Integrated Marine Group, Robinson Interiors and Southern Spars/North Sails.

Thanks also goes to Holton Marine, Maxwell Marine, Whiting Power Systems, Harken New Zealand – Fosters, Events Clothing, Kit Carlier Design, McMullen & Wing, Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders, Q-West, NZ Marine and Composites Industry Training Organisation, Mount Gay Rum, COAST New Zealand, Hancocks and our media sponsors The Superyacht Owner and Ocean Media.