Record-Breaking Solo Circumnavigation of New Zealand

May 2024

Image © RNZYS Media

Australian sailor Lisa Blair has set off from Auckland on a bold attempt to establish a new world record for circumnavigating New Zealand solo. Departing from North Head at 0757 NZST on a May morning, Blair embarked on her journey aboard the yacht Climate Action Now, aiming to navigate over 2,200 nautical miles around the country. This ambitious endeavor follows her recent record-setting voyage from Sydney to Auckland, where she cut over four days off the existing record, pending ratification by the World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSRC).

As she sails north towards Cape Reinga, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea, Blair faces diverse challenges, including storm force winds and rogue waves near Stewart Island. Throughout her journey, Blair is committed to raising awareness about ocean pollution and advocating for climate action. Her voyage is not only a test of her sailing prowess but also a platform to spotlight environmental issues, reflecting her role as a storyteller and advocate for the oceans. For more details, you can read the full story on Live Sail Die.

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