Offshore powerboats move final from Auckland to Gulf Harbou

The executive of the New Zealand Offshore Powerboat Association (NZOPA) has announced the decision to move the final round of the 2009 to Gulf Harbour, rather than holding it in Auckland as originally planned.

 

“We missed a round at Gulf Harbour earlier in the season due to most unusual weather conditions that prevented our safety helicopter flying,” says Wayne Valder, NZOPA president. “Recent information from the Auckland City Council that they did not have the budget to support our Auckland Harbour final on 2 May adds a financial disincentive to running the event in Auckland.

 

“It’s a great shame not to be racing in Auckland City this year, but we understand the council has its own budgetary constraints,” says Valder.

 

“But Auckland’s loss is Rodney’s gain and we’re really looking forward to a spectacular day of racing off the end of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula on 2 May. With the support of major sponsors such as Rayglass New Zealand, we are able to put on a free afternoon of racing and entertainment, so we look forward to seeing powerboat racing fans from all over Auckland enjoying a trip out to Gulf Harbour to watch our fantastic boats in action.”