North Sails powers local innovation and excellence at Bay of Islands Sailing Week
by Hana Hielkema / Jacob Fewtrell Media 21 Jan 12:23 NZDT
North Sails are a strong supporter of Bay of Islands Sailing Week - 2024 © Jacob Fewtrell Media
It's registration day! As sailors gather for Bay of Islands Sailing Week (BOISW), North Sails' commitment to the event continues to elevate both the gathering and the competitors who make it special.
While the iconic blue and white logo returns as a major sponsor, the company's influence extends far beyond branding – from innovative sail design to expert on-water support.
Kevin Peet's Ross 9.14 'Blackout' exemplifies this synergy. The Opua based performance keelboat will debut several new North Sails at BOISW, including a J3 and fractional code zero designed by local expert Paul Stubbs.
"They've been nicely designed to give us more options on the race course to be more efficient on all angles," says Peet, highlighting the advantage of having world-class design expertise in New Zealand.
The collaboration deepens with North Sails management team member Guy Hewson joining Peet's crew. Hewson's international sail-making experience brings valuable expertise in sail trim and setup to 'Blackout's campaign. Peet has assembled an experienced crew of "old mates" including Andrew Potter, Ollie Sparks, Riley Peet, and Robbs Hielkema.
Since acquiring Blackout ten months ago, Peet has fully embraced the competitive 30ft fleet, participating in the Bay of Islands Yacht Club Whangaroa Race, Opua Cruising Club weekly racing, and the 2024 PIC Coastal Classic.
The team now looks forward to testing their new sail inventory at BOISW this week, with fellow Ross 9.1 Physical Favours emerging as key competition among entries in the Island Cruising – Spinnaker Division.
Sales & Marketing Manager Andrew Wills emphasises North Sails NZ's longstanding support of BOISW: "Supporting Bay Week is important to us as it is a way of supporting our yachting community. Bay Week encompasses high-end yachting right through to cruisers who want to participate and enjoy the event. It's an iconic regatta and we're proud to be a part of it."
North Sails will offer repair services from their Opua base during the event, with manager Roger Hall and a team of sailmakers available to assist owners with sail repair from any manufacturer. North Sails will give a presentation on the event stage at 5pm tomorrow, Wednesday 22 January, following the first day of racing.
The Opua loft is based at the far end of the marina on Baffin Street.
Contact 027 525 1891 or email
Visit - North Sails Opua Visit - North Sails Opua
Quick Note: Bay of Islands Sailing Week brings together sailors from all over for some fantastic racing and even better times. From serious racers to casual sailors, everyone’s welcome to join in the fun at one of New Zealand’s most beloved sailing events.
Key notes:
- Website: bayofislandssailingweek.org.nz
- Dates: January 21-24, 2025
- Location: Bay of Islands, Aotearoa New Zealand
- North Sails Talk: Event stage, 5pm Wednesday 22 January
- Notice of Race click here
- Sailing Instructions:
click here