It was a stunning day on the water for the 33rd annual GIB® Architects' Regatta.This year we saw a plethora of 35 yachts competing against each other to take out the top spots in Spinnaker and Non- Spinnaker divisions.

With no hint of last year’s possible cyclone conditions, the breeze was light but the race was still nothing but exciting. Matt Brew Architects’ on board ‘Crystal Clear’ sailed with ease past the others in their division to take first place in Spinnaker – for the second year running! And following closely behind to take second place was the very pretty ‘Party Girl’ crewed by Hume Architects Ltd.

In the Non-Spinnaker Division, you could be forgiven for thinking you had déjà vu, as we all watched ‘Mayhem’, sailed by the crew from Eclipse Architecture, coolly navigate their way through the fleet to defend their 2019 title, taking first place in the Non-Spinnaker division. Bittersweet for TOA Architects on ‘Systems Thunder’ who lead for much of the race, only to be passed in the last leg of the course to finish in second place.

Sponsors Choice (chosen by PPG) is always an interesting one as the team scrutinise each yacht and crew looking for something special that makes them stand out in the crowd. While there was much to choose from, Respond Architects on ‘Stratocaster’ were given the nod on the day ticking off ‘smooth sailing’, ‘friendly crew’ and ultimately ‘the yacht was PPG colours’!

Finally, we would like to say thanks to all who helped on the day, in particular our sponsor family, Tasman Insulation,  Laminex New Zealand and PPG Industries, and of course to you, who took the time out to join us and spend an enjoyable afternoon on the water.

Our team truly value the opportunity to mix and celebrate with the Auckland Architect and Specifier fraternity, and thank you for making this such a memorable event. We look forward to seeing you back out on the water next year.

View images from the 2020 GIB® Architects' Regatta here, or contact bevan@mtbarker.nz to purchase images.