Tuesday, July 01, 2008

Auckland to Whangarei

Well the day finally came, no doubt to the surprise of many who thought we were a fixture at Bayswater. There was a fairly strong NW wind so we used a bowthruster to manoeuvre out ie Tony in the marina rib.
The local harbour authorities were out to see us off (which included throwing eggs at us) during the first of a few squalls on the way up. We had a fairly fast and wet and windy sail to Kawau in around 30 knots with triple reefed main and staysail. Anchored at Bon Accord for the night.
The next day ended up being a bit of a beat to windward in very variable weather, going from full sail plus motor to double reef and staysail with lots of putting in and shaking out of reefs. Got hit by several squalls including one quite vicious one. Our intention had been to go to Urquart’s Bay at Whangarei Heads but found ourselves wallowing around after dark going nowhere and not wanting to increase sail as we could no longer see the squalls coming. So we anchored off Mangawhai Heads for the night – very sheltered but a bit rolly!Up before dawn on Sunday. The photo is looking out towards the Hen and Chickens Islands. For a change we had a pleasant sail to the entrance to Whangarei. One o’clock saw us anchored off Norsands Boatyard ready to haul out. The rest of the day was spent taking off sails and general preparations.

Saying Goodbye to CP


Last Sunday CP went to a new home. Unfortunately she is not a sailor and wouldn’t appreciate a lengthy period aboard the boat when it is actually moving. She would also not like the tropics as she gets too hot in Auckland sometimes. So we found a new home for her. Apparently, after a couple of days she was out from hiding and purring and smooching so I know who is going to miss who the most. The occasion deserves to be marked with a photo or two.