Tight racing, light breeze, and plenty of character

Image:Marcus Brummel / Live Sail Die

The 2026 PIC Harbour Classic delivered everything we love about sailing on the Waitematā Harbour, tight racing, light breeze tactics, and a fleet full of character.

From the moment crews gathered at Wynyard Pavilion the night before, there was a real sense of anticipation. By midday, sails were up off North Head, with a gentle northerly building just enough to get the fleet moving across an 8 nautical mile course between Takapuna and Rangitoto.

Out on the water, boats sailed within metres of each other, with friendly calls echoing across the fleet. It was competitive, but unmistakably social.

By mid afternoon, the mood shifted as boats returned to Jellicoe Harbour. Raft ups formed, lines were tied, and crews settled into the kind of post race atmosphere that makes days like this memorable.

Back at Wynyard Pavilion, the celebration continued. A floating yellow duck was officially named “Duck Norris”, and the prizegiving quickly rolled into a lively after party.

More than just a race, the PIC Harbour Classic is about people, boats, and sharing the harbour together.