Had my best blokart sailing experience earlier this week when a couple of us made it up to the Kaipara Heads and back starting
from Muriwai somewhere between 100 - 120 km for the round trip, I believe). I know it's a well travelled route by larger craft but
if you're contemplating it, it's definitely recommended.
It's a trip I've been wanting to do for about five months but combining wind, low tide and time off work had seemed virtually impossible.
However, on Monday the planets must have come into line and it finally happened. There was a strong westerley (averaging just under
20 knots according to the Manukau Heads internet weather site) and low tide was mid afternoon. We set off about 1.5 hrs before then.
With a slight head wind the trip north took just under two hours (including a couple of stops) but only a fraction over an hour on a
very fast downwind leg.
The highlight, however, was reaching the heads. After the long upwind slog the beach started to curve slowly to the northeast and as
we progressed the wind come in behind us and we were virtually flying. The speed and acceleration were unreal. I've been clocked at
65km but this felt considerably faster. The sand was much firmer than at the southern end and the beach was much wider and we had a
great time tearing around for almost an hour. By the time we got back to our vehicle it was three hours after low tide and we were
pleased we had't left our run any later.
The long wait for the right conditions was well worth it - next time 90 mile beach!!
Phil Crawford
blokart no. 104
New Zealand
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