N.Z. ocean yachts of ‘high safety standard’

Press, 7 June 1983, Page 9

N.Z. ocean yachts of ‘high safety standard’

PA Auckland Ocean racing yachts today are probably stronger than ever, according to a New Zealand Yachting Federation official.

The secretary of the federation’s safety inspectors committee, Mr D. A. Harland said last evening: “Our inspections and safety regulations are at a higher standard than anywhere else in the world. “I do not think there is anything wrong with the yachts that are going offshore now.”

Mr Harland was asked to comment after the weekend incidents in which the Auckland-to-Suva race entrants, Southern Raider and Chicane’s crews sent out distress signals asking to be taken off after being battered by stormy seas during their return voyages.

Mr Harland said most of the returning boats had only skeleton crews on board.

“Certainly some of the crews that are bringing them home have not had the same experience that the

racing crews have had.” An Auckland sailing teacher, Ms Penny Whiting, said she believed that yachts taking part in races to Noumea and Fiji about six years ago were heavier and of different design. “People are making these boats do the dual purpose of round-the-harbour and ocean racing,” she said. “They are almost two different vessels. “I believe the boats that come home from these races are under-crewed. Sea sickness is a big problem.”