Back to top anchor
Close main menu
Open main menu Close main menu

Young sailors to follow in Sir Peter Blake's footsteps with Blake Inspire programme

Issue date

Sir Peter Blake was one of the world’s most celebrated yachtsmen but he was so much more than that and he still continues to inspire people throughout the world.

Now a bunch of young sailors with a passion for the environment have the opportunity to follow in Blake’s footsteps by taking part in an environmental leadership development programme.

Join the Sir Peter Blake Trust, in partnership with Yachting New Zealand, for the inaugural Blake Inspire programme – a five-day environmental leadership development adventure designed for emerging New Zealand sailors.

You don’t have to be the next sailing champion – we’re looking for students of all sailing levels - but you do need a sense of adventure, a curious mind that’s ready to learn and develop skills to lead positive change and a love of being out on the water.

Delegates will learn about topical environmental issues on this programme from inspiring experts and heroes from within environmental and sailing communities; experience sailing on Auckland’s iconic Hauraki Gulf; go snorkelling in the Goat Island Marine Reserve; go behind the scenes with Emirates Team New Zealand, learn about the legacy of Sir Peter Blake; and take part in restoration and volunteer projects.

Most importantly, you will return with incredible stories, new friends and networks and leadership capabilities and strategies to lead a sustainable future within your communities and sailing clubs.

Graduates will also be eligible for future Young Blake Expeditions. This year 20 students and 23 crew members embarked on an expedition to the Kermadec Islands on board HMNZS Canterbury.

Yachting New Zealand recently launched their environmental sustainability strategy in an effort to protect and enhance the marine and coastal environment for all to enjoy.

The Sir Peter Blake Trust have signed on as partners with Yachting New Zealand, with both sharing a goal that aligned with Sir Peter Blake’s vision for seeing positive change within the boating community, particularly among young people who will be the next generation of ocean leaders. Yachting New Zealand’s involvement in the Blake Inspire programme came about through this partnership.

The Sir Peter Blake Trust was established in 2004 and is dedicated to continuing his environmental leadership legacy. They do that by inspiring environmental passion in people through life-changing adventures and programmes that follow in the footsteps of Sir Peter himself.

Blake Inspire programme

  • Delegates must be in years 11-13 during 2018 to apply
  • Delegates must belong to a Yachting New Zealand affiliated club
  • Programme will take place in Auckland from December 9-14, 2018
  • Cost is $999 (+ GST) per delegate + travel expenses for those coming from out of town
  • Up to 25 sailors will be selected as delegates on this programme
  • Accommodation, meals and all activities during the programme are included in the price
  • Applications close at 5pm on October 23

For more information, and to apply, see here.