The week leading up to the Regatta was as much of a nail biter as the actual race. Cyclone Oma was getting closer and closer, and we were bracing ourselves to potentially cancel the 32nd GIB® Architects' Regatta. Then … a stroke of good luck and Oma headed for Australia, and we were back in business.

This year 36 yachts went up against each other in one of the highlights on the GIB® calendar. The weather was perfect and a good breeze on the water saw the yachts take off from the start line and up the harbour.

In a truly spectacular finish, we saw Eclipse Architecture on ‘Mayhem’ (the ‘Emirates Team New Zealand’ of the fleet), carve up the field to secure first place in the Non-Spinnaker division, roaring past Williams Architects on ‘North Sails’ who were pipped at the post finishing in second.

In the Spinnaker Division, Matt Brew Architects on ‘Crystal Clear’ held their pace throughout the course, sneaking up from 12th off the mark to come in first. And the crew of 8 from Karl Majurey Architects on ‘Beep Beep’ lived up to their Road Runner image on the side of the boat as they cruised in to take second.

And, from our vantage point on Mainbreak, the sponsors pick for ‘Sponsors Choice’ was an easy one with everyone unanimously choosing Stack Interiors on ‘Satisfaction’ who were clearly having a fun time.

Finally, we would like to thank all those who helped on the day, in particular our sponsor family, Tasman Insulation, Laminex New Zealand and PPG Industries, and of course to you all 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.

For the Official Prize List click on link below.

PHOTOS: For those interested in viewing the full set of photos, or to purchase prints, click here.