“It’s difficult not to be mesmerised by the Dragon’s sleek, graceful lines, its generous overhangs and powerful rig. The Dragon is a pure racing thoroughbred: The Sailing Man’s Bugatti, and it is its good looks, coupled with supreme performance, which has sustained its popularity for almost 100 years.”

Calling all aficionados of fine classic wooden yachts & sailors who love truly fine sailing capabilities. Aotearoa is exceptionally responsive with beautiful performance that is capable to match, and even outperform, many larger keelers of a similar era.

This is a once in 25 year opportunity to become the steward of a small coveted piece of NZ yachting history – international class Dragon yacht AOTEAROA is looking for a new home to care for and enjoy this amazing yacht.

In excellent condition for age, as owners we are now focused on larger cruising sailing and have decided that Aotearoa should be released to a new home whilst in the exceptional condition she is in.

Complete and ready to sail, with registered road trailer and many many extras.

Built in 1967, Aotearoa has remained in the same family ownership for the last 26+ years. Following a complete rebuild in 2004/5, for most of the last 20 years Aotearoa has been actively competing with the New Zealand Dragon Association (now disbanded), Classic Yacht Association and has often seen out in other Auckland regattas such as the Anniversary Day and Architects’ regattas.

In 2021 she moved to Te Kouma Harbour on the Coromandel Peninsula where she has been sailing within the Thames Sailing Club fleet.

Generally Aotearoa is lifted out of the water every winter and stored in sheds or on the hard with overall cover to ensure her condition is optimised.

Interest is sought from all parties. Feel free to contact the owner on the Trade Me chat or directly on 021 623 225.

The seller’s priority is to find a steward who will care for her and ensure this rare part of New Zealand sailing history is preserved.

https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/motors/boats-marine/yachts/keeler/listing/5636931229

• Listing ID: 168544
• Type: used