Classic boats gearing up to take to the lake
Hardy clinkers, classic yachts, sleek cedar kayaks, veteran jetboats and meticulous replica steam-boats. Hours of effort from ‘blokes in sheds’ will be displayed at Lake Rotoiti in the Nelson Lakes National Park on March 3 & 4 in a weekend of ‘Glorious Hydromatic Relaxation’. Displays on land until 1pm, activities and races on the lake in the afternoon, both days.
The NZ Antique and Classic Boatshow is now in its 19th year, and continues to grow in the number and quality of craft presented, as well as the number of people coming to view the boats and the action on the lake.
This includes races for all types of craft from jet boats to rowing skiffs, highlighted by the quirky Le Mans (beach race) start to the Seagull dinghy race.
Judging will take place on Saturday, ahead of an evening awards ceremony at the Alpine Lodge. At stake is the Jens Hansen Trophy where the judges are after good looks as well as history, construction and a boat with a story to tell.
Other awards include prizes for best new restoration, best steamboat, best jet-propelled craft and best themed display, as well as prizes for race winners.
All boats will be checked for noxious aquatic weeds, and oil leaks before entering the water; and boaties are reminded to be aware of minimising the spread of didymo. Reminder: DOC has released Kiwi into the national park very close to where the show takes place, so no antique and classic dogs please.
More info www.nzclassicboats.com at