Issue date
From battling infernos to managing complex operational crises, Nigel Richards has spent a lifetime putting out fires - and now he's bringing that expertise to Yachting New Zealand as the new regional development, safety and compliance manager.
Richards joins Ingrid Harder and Jenny Armstrong as part of the new-look NZCT regional development management team, following a major revamp of the RDM programme designed to provide clubs with more targeted, practical support. The overhaul was prompted by club feedback, including last year’s annual survey, highlighting the need for specialised assistance in coaching, governance, advocacy, safety, sustainability, and inclusion.
Born on England's south coast, Richards (pictured top right) began sailing at six and progressed through a wide range of dinghies and keelboats. After moving to New Zealand in 2005, he lived aboard his Roberts 53 for eight years, exploring the northern coastline and South Pacific islands wife Amanda and daughter Ella.
Professionally, Richards spent more than 30 years in firefighting and emergency management, serving as an incident commander in high-stakes situations including the Christchurch earthquakes, the MV Rena container ship grounding, and volcanic unrest in the central North Island. He most recently worked as an investigation inspector for WorkSafe New Zealand, leading health and safety investigations and ensuring compliance across workplaces. He previously co-ran a sailing business guiding skippers through safe preparation for open-ocean passages.
"I'm excited to join the team where I hope to influence club and crew safety while maintaining the high standards of support Yachting New Zealand offers the sailing community," Richards said. "It's about planning, collaboration, and ensuring people can operate safely in complex environments."
Based in Whangārei, Richards will be the point of contact for yacht clubs in the northern North Island. The safety and compliance part of his role spans the entire country.
Interim chief executive Raynor Haagh said Richards' appointment significantly strengthens Yachting New Zealand's ability to support clubs with practical guidance on safety and compliance.
"We're delighted to welcome Nigel to the team. He brings the rare combination of hands-on sailing experience and operational safety expertise, which will be invaluable to our clubs as they manage risks and grow their programmes," she said.
Haagh also paid tribute to Wayne Holdt, who retired this month from his full-time role as central region RDM after more than 17 years. A top-class yachtie, champion for disabled sailing, and much-loved member of the Taranaki sailing community, Holdt will continue coaching at New Plymouth Yacht Club and serving on the organising committee for next year's Optimist national championships.
He has also taken on a part-time role as Yachting New Zealand's Disabled Sailing Manager, supporting the country's 12 Sailability programmes.
"We owe Wayne an enormous debt of gratitude. Few people have contributed more to grassroots sailing, and we're thrilled he will continue to support our disability programmes, which is a cause very close to his heart," Haagh said.
Holdt (pictured top left) plans to spend more time sailing and with his grandchildren.
"I want to thank everyone who's supported me over the years," Holdt said. "I'll certainly miss working with the yacht clubs in the central region - though not the travelling! to get to them!"
