On many lakes and beaches in New Zealand colorful sails may be seen on any day with light winds as board riders catch the breezes. A wet suit and a buoyancy vest are advisable when windsurfing; any good swimmer who can lift the sail should then be safe windsurfing, although beginners should practice in a onshore breeze, as getting back is then easier than getting out.
The Hauraki Gulf at Auckland, Port Nicholson at Wellington, Lyttelton Harbour at Christchurch and Otago Harbour at Dunedin are all poplar yacht basins, at their best in summer. Charter boats of all descriptions are available around the country, on the larger lakes as well as on the coast. Classic sailing areas include the Bay of Islands, the Waitemata Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf at Auckland, the Coromandel and the Marlborough Sounds.
There are several options; some operators run regular cruises to a set schedule; others offer skippered charters, where you have some control and participation but professionals do the actual work; and for those with some experience, “bare boating” provides a suitable vessel and advice and leaves you to your own devices. Yachting is a thriving sport for all ages.
