Peer Gynt was built by Bob Wild boatbuilders, Hamilton for Patricia and Colin Reid of Northcote. Bob Wild was a friend and neighbour when they lived in Hamilton.
Peer Gynt was constructed exactly to the Twilight plan, the only deviation being two quarter berths and a re-arranged galley to accommodate the Reia family of 2 adults and 4 children. The launching took place at
Westhaven in November 1975 with the support of many friends.
The 1975 Christmas cruise to the Bay of Islands was highlighted while anchored in Whangaruru during a severe electrical storm. The mast was struck by lightning, which passed down the rigging and mast destroying all electrical equipment, the engine box, and cracked the deadwood
around the shaft. The noise inside was like a shot gun being discharged.
Peer Gynt has raced extensively, won two Class Championships, six Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron Townson 32 Division Championships and many seconds and thirds. Twenty seven years after her launching, Peer Gynt is still enjoyed by the family and friends.