Professional Skipper - Free Sample issue (July/Aug 2011)

MILD START TO WINTER THE LA NIÑA event in the tropical Pacific continues to weaken and should be gone by the end of June, so a mild early winter is shaping up for many regions, says the NIWA National Climate Centre. The centre's latest outlook, for May to July, indicates temperatures are likely to be above average across all of the North Island and in Buller/Nelson and Marlborough, and average or above average over the rest of the South Island. Cold snaps typical of winter will still occur from time to time through the period. Seasonal rainfall is likely to be normal or above normal in the north and east of the North Island, nearly normal in the southwest of the North Island and the northern South Island, and normal or below normal over the rest of the South Island. River flows are likely to be above normal in the northern North Island, normal or below normal in the western South Island and nearly normal elsewhere. Mean sea level pressures are likely to be below normal to the north of New Zealand and above normal to the east and south of the country, with more frequent than normal northerly or nor'easterly winds over the country. Temperatures are likely to be above average across all the North Island and in Buller/Nelson and Marlborough, and average or above average over the rest of the South Island. Sea surface temperatures near New Zealand are expected to be average or above average, with above normal conditions more likely around the northern North Island. In the longer term beyond July, the majority of the international forecast models maintain neutral conditions in the Pacific, although a few models suggest the development of an El Niño event late this year. COMMERCIAL ENGINES 10 TO 1000HP PLUS Fuel savings long life True marine engine Proven in Asia- Pacifi c Region Rugged Design Durable for YACHTING MEDIA HONOUR BIG FISH THE 45M YACHT Big Fish, featured in Professional Skipper, was honoured on successive nights in Hong Kong and London for her design, construction and approach to luxury expedition yachting. The first award, for the most innovative motor yacht launched in 2010, was presented to her owner, Richard Beattie, on May 6 at the Hong Kong Gold Coast Boat Show at the Gold Coast Marina. The awards honour the best yachts and yacht industry companies in the Asia-Pacific region. On the following evening, Beattie and other members of Aquos Yachts gathered in London for the World Superyacht Awards, presented by Boat International magazine. They received a special judges' commendation in her category of best motor yacht under 500 gross registered tonnes. "In less than a year, Aquos Yachts has come from nowhere to become one of the most highly visible and appreciated names in luxury yacht design and construction. We couldn't be more thrilled," Beattie said. NORTH ISLAND + 64 (9) 358 2050 SOUTH ISLAND + 64 (3) 328 8120 sales@whitingpower.com www.whitingpower.com July/August 2011 Professional Skipper r 41 VIP.S73

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