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It's now more important than ever to stay connected and there are a number of ways people in the sailing community can do this while in lockdown but also when life returns to some semblance of normality.
Yachting New Zealand host a handful of Facebook pages, including the Yachting New Zealand Coaches page, which provides information on upcoming courses and job opportunities.
There is also a private group for coach developers and registered coaches called the Yachting New Zealand Coaches Forum, which includes resources, tips and information about events and opportunities, and anyone interested in joining can apply on the Facebook page.
Other groups have been formed over the years which might be of interest, including the Kiwi Sailing Girls Facebook group, which aims to connect young New Zealand females who sail and is a place to share ideas, experiences and upcoming events. It's a private group overseen by NZL Sailing Team member Erica Dawson, who also helped put together Yachting New Zealand's Women and Girls in Sailing Strategy, and Megan Thomson from the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron but anyone wanting to join can apply.
There are other women's forums including Women's Dinghy Sailing/Racing NZ and Women's Keelboat Racing NZ.
Many of the class associations are active on Facebook, including the likes of Windfoil New Zealand, Young 88 and New Zealand Sunburst Association and most clubs have pages and forums to keep connected with their members.
If your club or class association doesn't have one set up, perhaps you could take the lead. It's easier than you might think.
