Events such as the Evolution Sails Women’s Regatta, sailed out of the Waikawa Boating Club in the Marlborough Sounds, have become hugely popular for their combination of fun yet competitive racing and social times ashore. The Gulf Harbour club north of Auckland has also introduced a Women on Water Weekend, held the last two years in March and attracting more than 120 female sailors.
The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, as part of its ‘Reset’ programme to boost membership and broaden the club’s diversity, is also looking at how it can connect with more women. In August Gillian Williams will become the first ever woman to take on the role of RNZYS commodore, and
