A handful of clubs are planning their season opening on Friday, which coincides with the first day of the new Covid Protection Framework (traffic light system). It will be fantastic to see those clubs in the Auckland region being able to offer more activities under the new guidelines, which allow for a return to double-handed and keelboat sailing. We lead this instalment of Briefings with a look at what the new guidelines mean for yachting and boating clubs and what each club will need to consider when deciding how they operate safely. 

We also take a look at what's been happening around the country in Regional Roundup, bring you some encouraging results from this year's Voice of the Participant Survey and let you know about a couple of Yachting New Zealand events - February's Oceanbridge NZL Sailing Regatta which will also double as the New Zealand Youth Championships, as well a ramp up in activity for youth sailors. There's also a poignant story about the passing of Pete Waters, a talented and popular sailor who passed away recently due to skin cancer.

As always, let us know if you've got any news or suggestions by emailing michaelb@yachtingnz.org.nz.