PredictWind Matt Mitchell Memorial & Sunburst North Island Regatta

The PredictWind Matt Mitchell Memorial & Sunburst North Island Regatta is coming to Milford Cruising Club.

Matt was a three-time America’s Cup winner, a passionate Zephyr sailor, and a former President of the Zephyr Owners’ Association. Milford Cruising Club is honoured to host the inaugural Matt Mitchell Memorial, which will no doubt be hotly contested on the water, while inspiring plenty of storytelling, camaraderie, and fun onshore.

Photo credit: Suellen Hurling

Sunburst sailors will be competing for the Silver Sunburst, handcrafted by Brian Cato and presented to the winner of the Sunburst North Island Regatta.

First held in 1982, the Sunburst North Island Regatta was long considered the premier Sunburst event until the class gained National Class status in 1994. 
As with the Zephyrs, there will be plenty of rivalry afloat as crews battle to claim the much-coveted Silver Sunburst, with no shortage of stories and reminiscing ashore.

About the Event:

• Friday 20 November 2026 – 4pm Registration + Invitation/Practice race late afternoon/evening. Bar & BBQ.
• Saturday 21 November 2026 – 8am Registration & racing. Possible cannon start. Food trucks and live band in the evening. Bar & BBQ.
• Sunday November 22 November 2026 – Racing from 10.30am followed by BBQ & prizegiving. Bar Open.

The NOR can be found here:https://www.milfordcruising.co.nz/races/#regattas

Want to get involved? 

Milford Cruising Club have volunteer opportunities available on and off the water. If you’re interested, please email manager@milfordcruising.co.nz

Spread the word, mark your calendars and come be part of this very special event!