Next year’s regatta will be the 18th one organised by Rotary to raise funds for local charities. Funds go to the Westpac Helicopter Trust, the local hospice and towards sponsoring an apprentice in the printing industry.

The three major patrons for next year’s event are Times Media Group, Forbes Packaging and Spicers Paper.

One of the organisers, Tracy-Leigh Turnbull, of Times Media, says they’re aiming to expand the event by opening it up to other related industries.

“We’d like to see a larger representation from right across the printing and packaging industries with teams from suppliers and associated companies.”

She says it is always a great day of competitive fun both on and off the water. Lunch is provided aboard the boats, and the racing ends with a large buffet dinner on Kawau Island before competitors return home early evening.

Sponsors are encouraged to add colour to the day by flying their company’s flag aboard their boats, and by providing yachting uniforms with their names on them.

Auckland guests are transported to Kawau Island aboard the Quick Cat Ferry. Last year’s event was slightly delayed when passengers were late getting to the Auckland waterfront when a truck overturned on the Southern motorway holding up traffic. No such delays are anticipated for next year’s event however.

It is suggested that guests arrive at the Mansion House Wharf already dressed in yachting gear, with a change of clothes and a towel. Teams have a choice of active participation in the race, or to sit back and enjoy the ride. The boats come with their own crews.

For further information or an entry form for your team, contact Tracy-Leigh at Times Media Group, email: dreception@timesmedia.co.nz with attention to Tracy.

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter