70 boats for 70th Zephyr Nationals in Howick March 2026
Over 70 keen sail sailors from Central Otago to the Far North are expected to compete in the Zephyr 70th National’s to be hosted by the Howick Sailing Club in Auckland 12th to 15th March 2026.
The Zephyr is a single handed one design 3.35 metre centre board yacht, designed by Des Townson in 1956 and 70 years on is the most active adult dingy sailing class in New Zealand with up to 300 boats sailing. Built in wood for 65 years and now in fiberglass, the class continues to grow. Class President, John Kliffen, says ‘the Zephyr is a very easy boat to sail and it is great to see the growing number of younger sailors and women sailors entering the class- giving the experienced grey haired sailors some great competition! The Rear Commodore of the Howick Sailing Club, Marc Frewin, says ‘ we welcome the Zephyr fleet from around NZ to the great sailing conditions on the sparkling waters of Tamaki Straight, right in front of our club house, for their 70th regatta and celebrations’.
The age range for the Nationals is likely to be from 20 to 80 year olds and the skill level is from social club sailors to past Olympians. The one common thing is the comradery and fun that all the sailors will enjoy!
Download more information about the regatta here
More info: zephyr.org.nz and howicksailingclub.co.nz
Posted: Monday 20 October 2025