New Zealand will be hosting the A2B Ocean Race. This represents a new major yacht race, that will kick off from Auckland on February 9, 2014.
Race Promoter - Murray Francis
It will travel the length of the country, departing the NZ largest city – Auckland and arriving in the NZ smallest port town – Bluff. On route, it will head up through the Bay of Islands, round Cape Reinga, down the West Coast before rounding the base of the South Island and into the town famous for its oysters and southern hospitality – Bluff.
The A2B Ocean Race will be held on an annual basis on the first Sunday after Waitangi Day. With the race expected to take a week to sail, this date maximises spectator opportunities with the fleet departing Auckland on a Sunday and the majority of yachts being welcomed into Bluff the following weekend.
The race fleet is limited to 30 boats in the inaugural year. Half of these boats are expected to be international entries, with expressions of interest already being received from yachts excited at the challenge of pitting themselves against the Southern Ocean.
The driving force behind the establishment of the A2B Ocean Race has been Murray Francis.
While new to the world of yachting, Francis has developed a reputation as a man that makes things happen. He was the Producer of hit film – “The World’s Fastest Indian” and more recently the Executive Producer of “Two Little Boys”.
Francis came on board with the A2B Ocean Race at an early stage, excited by the opportunity to create a national race which built on the New Zealand’s proud maritime heritage and the ability to show off NZ’s pristine environment to the world through the filming of the race.
In describing his initial vision for the race, Francis said: “we want to create an event which showcases New Zealand’s marine industry. The Auckland to Bluff Ocean Race will not only promote sailing and our marine industry, but will showcase our spectacular scenery to an international audience.”
Steven Joyce, Minister for Economic Development said: “The A2B, which is to be held in February 2014, is an innovative new yacht race from Auckland to the Bluff. It aims to become New Zealand’s premiere national boat race – attracting international participants including super yachts and maxi yachts, and festivals planned at both the start and finish line. New Zealand’s marine industry has $1.7 billion in annual turnover, produces $650 million in exports each year, and employs 9000 full time staff. This event is an excellent opportunity to show why our marine sector is among the best in the world.”
