Boating NZ December 2025

December edition, and that means summer is upon us, with all the good things it brings. It never ceases to amaze me how a bit of sunshine can change people’s perspectives for the better. With the promise of long, warm days ahead, everyone tends to look upon the world a bit more favourably, even economists! So too for us at Boating NZ magazine, as is reflected by the wideranging content in this issue, which hopefully offers something of interest for everyone. For senior contributing writer John Macfarlane, issue 472 (this issue) marks 25 years of writing for Boating NZ magazine. John’s regular monthly column, Reflections, tells the stories of people who have shaped New Zealand’s boating landscape. Always among the most read each month, his archived articles from years gone…

Step onboard Boating New Zealand to share thrilling maritime adventures, improve your knowledge of powerboats and yachts, feel the challenge of offshore voyages and be inspired by DIY projects in garages throughout the country. Plus, see the latest new boats from New Zealand and overseas – all brought to you by our talented pool of writers and photographers. CALL 0508 692628 FREEPHONE CHOOSE THE OPTION FOR YOU $139 for a 1-year subscription Save 23% off retail! (inc $56.40 postage) $270 for a 2-year subscription Save 25% off retail! (inc $112.80 postage) www.boatingnz.co.nz/subscribe/ WATCH BOAT REVIEWS AT WWW.BOATINGNZ.CO.NZ AND ON YOUTUBE…

Stephens Waring Design introduces IMMERST, a new concept in sustainable living that blends architecture, nature, and environmental respect. These innovative homes, designed for various settings like coastal areas, cliffs, and forests, offer unique living experiences in harmony with their surroundings. Drawing on over 30 years of sustainable yacht design, IMMERST homes are built with materials like crosslaminated timber and marine-grade stainless steel, and feature integrated systems for light, heat, water, and drainage. The modular design allows for scalability and customisation, ensuring each home is both contemporary and environmentally friendly. Initial projects are already underway in the United States. stephenswaring.com/immerst…

Freedom Boat Club, the world’s largest boat club and a Brunswick Corporation brand, has been named to Entrepreneur magazine’s 2025 Top Global Franchises list. This annual ranking highlights the top 200 U.S.-based franchise brands expanding globally. Freedom Boat Club earned its place due to its international growth and commitment to making boating more accessible. With over 400 locations, including 50 international ones across Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, the Club leads the shared-access boating industry. Founded in 1989 in Sarasota, Florida, Freedom Boat Club pioneered the boat club model, offering members unlimited access to a fleet of boats. Since joining the Brunswick family in 2019, the brand has accelerated its international expansion, introducing new locations in markets including the U.K., France, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand. “Freedom Boat Club’s recognition…

Emirates Team New Zealand is honoured to be named the 2025 World Sailing Team of the Year, recognising their success on the water and commitment to teamwork, innovation, and community. This award follows their historic third consecutive America’s Cup victory in 2024, solidifying their position as one of the most successful teams in the event’s history. COO Kevin Shoebridge emphasised the collective effort of the entire organisation, from sailors to support staff, in achieving this recognition. The award celebrates the team’s core values of collaboration, respect, and excellence. Emirates Team New Zealand also acknowledged the other nominees, particularly Dani A Pich from Yes We Sail, for their contributions to the sport. Looking ahead, the team remains dedicated to pushing boundaries and representing New Zealand with pride on the world stage.…

The 2025-2026 New Zealand Jet Sprint Championship kicks off in early December, featuring six race meetings at four purpose-built tracks across New Zealand. Each boat races around a rugby field-sized track, hitting 130km/h in less than two seconds and negotiating at least 20 corners in under a minute. Racers compete in four established classes and the new junior ‘Nextgen’ class for drivers aged 8 to 16. Key competitors include Sam Newdick and Shama Putaranui in the Southern Jet Superboats, and Ollie Silverton and Amanda Kittow in the Group A class. The Mountain View track near Stratford debuts this season, hosting rounds 4 and 6. The championship also includes meetings at Featherston, Wanaka, and Whanganui, with live streaming available on The Broadcast Co website. 2025-2026 NEW ZEALAND JET SPRINT CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULE:…