Opua's Strengths Shine for International Sailing Event

Far North Holdings is proud to see Opua and the Bay of Islands Marina featured in a recent RNZ The Detail podcast, spotlighting the upcoming Solo Trans-Tasman Yacht Challenge.

The episode highlights what is shaping up to be a record fleet, with commentary from race director Julie Kidman and competitor Malcolm Dixon. At 72, Dixon is the oldest entrant in the race and remains one of the favourites, bringing decades of offshore sailing experience to a highly competitive field.

The podcast also reinforces the advantages of Opua as the official race start location. The Bay of Islands Marina and Boatyard offers a unique strength in its comprehensive marine services precinct, where competitors can access a full range of expert trades including boat building, chandlery and rigging services, all in one place to ensure vessels are race ready.

Opua’s status as an official customs port of entry also supports a smooth and efficient departure process for both international and local competitors. Geographically its location also provides a more favourable start to the race, allowing skippers an initial coastal leg before heading out into the Tasman.

The Bay of Islands will take centre stage on 30th May, as Opua becomes the race starting point for the first time. Competitors will depart on the 1,200 nautical mile solo journey across the Tasman Sea to Southport on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

As owner and operator of the Bay of Islands Marina, Far North Holdings is proud to support this milestone event, which will bring increased visibility, activity and economic benefit to local and wider Far North region.

With a strong international line-up and growing interest across the sailing community, anticipation is building for what promises to be an exciting and closely contested race.

🎧 Listen to the full RNZ podcast here