Stuart Robinson the Chairman NZ Marine Export Group & chairman of the NZ Millennium Cup has pointed out to us that New Zealand’s Christmas tree, the pohutukawa is in flower.
This means the summer sun is shining on the two island country deep in the southern hemisphere.
The temptation to escape winter and go racing the South Pacific’s premier superyacht regatta is strong.
Set in the middle of New Zealand’s cruising season, the Millennium Cup makes a great focal point for yachts enjoying their time in the country.
With some of the entries undertaking charter while here, the organisers have announced that customs procedures around charter vessels have just been streamlined.
The regatta itself will be fast-paced excitement, the onshore events are designed to deliver polished Kiwi hospitality with that special relaxed slant that they are se well known for.
One of the most eagerly anticipated events is the Taste of Bay of Islands evening. The region’s accomplished vineyards and their vintners will be on-hand to walk guests through the flavours of Northland on the over-ocean deck of the 35 Degrees South restaurant.
Among the yachts entered for this year’s event is the Yachting Development built Bliss. The 36.9-metre composite sloop has spent the years since her 2009 launch, bluewater cruising and her owners are looking forward to joining the fun in the Bay of Islands. Another yacht is the Perini Navi-built 50-metre Silencio who is making the most of her time in New Zealand. The successful charter yacht will spend the summer showing guests the highlights of New Zealand’s coastline.
Tourism New Zealand recently released a guide and a stunning video aimed at helping superyacht owners pull the most enjoyment and adventure from the cruise of New Zealand’s pristine coastline.
Race entry includes berthing, ten tickets to each of the regatta’s official functions, plus 50 drinks tickets per night for Race HQ events.