BLAKE Inspire for Sailors 2023: Five Days of Environmental Leadership By Mukai Duder-Hura

Mukai Duder, DYC’s rep on the Blake Inspire programme 2023

In early May I was part of a group of 20 young sailors from yacht clubs all around Aotearoa, where we took part in a week-long adventure of environmental leadership on BLAKE Inspire for Sailors, a programme run annually by BLAKE and Yachting New Zealand.

Throughout the week, we had the incredible opportunity to learn about topical environmental issues facing Aotearoa New Zealand and delve into the legacy of Sir Peter Blake. It was awesome to meet experts and heroes from within the sustainability and sailing communities. These individuals shared their knowledge and experiences, igniting our interest to protect our precious oceans.

Battling the elements on Lion

The first two and half days of our trip were spent onboard Lion NZ, out on Tīkapa Moana/Te Moana-nui-ā-Toi, more commonly known as the Hauraki Gulf. We had a roaring sail from Rotoroa at the bottom end of Waiheke over to Tiritiri Mātangi, in 45+ knots and heavy squalls of rain. It was an absolute banger of a sail. Although we could not explore Tiritiri as planned, we had a great time onboard Lion studying marine science, catching plankton and examining them, learning the ropes of a Whitbread Maxi, and of course, learning more about the Blake legacy.

EV Ferry by McMullen and Wing

Once back onto dry land, we undertook a raft of different activities. This included a visit to McMullen & Wing, to learn about the EV ferries they are building for Auckland and we popped into North Sails here on the Shore. We also spent time with Sustainable Coastlines where we were introduced to the incredible diversity of life beneath the surface and the delicate balance that exists within ecosystems. We learned about the challenges facing our marine environment and the urgent need for sustainable practices to protect it for future generations, such as minimising plastic waste.

blake inspire for sailors class of 2023 with Blair tuke, nathan ouTteridge and team nz

Two of the most memorable moments for me were meeting Sarah-Jane Blake, daughter of the late Sir Peter, and our current Patron Lady Pippa Blake. The other, visiting the base of Emirates Team New Zealand. We climbed aboard Te Rehutai, the AC75 that triumphed two years ago here in Tāmaki Makaurau, walked the deck, went down below to examine the cutting-edge technology, and also got to try out the new bicycle grinders. We learned about the team's commitment to sustainability in the lead-up to the Cup defence in Barcelona with the creation of the first hydrogen chase boat. Their efforts to create a more sustainable sport resonated deeply with our own aspirations to protect the environment. 

Mukai with sarah-jane blake

Beyond the knowledge and experiences gained, what truly made this week special were the people we met along the way.

Reflecting on my time with BLAKE Inspire for Sailors, my biggest takeaway was the realisation of the importance of our oceans and the urgent need to protect them. Tāmaki Makaurau and the Hauraki Gulf became our classroom, teaching us about the interconnectedness of our actions and the environment. We must be stewards of our Moana, working together to safeguard its health for generations to come.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of BLAKE Inspire for Sailors 2023 and I extend my deepest thanks to BLAKE and Yachting New Zealand. A special shoutout to DYC Treasurer Grant Daniel who became my referee in my application. Moving forward I look forward to working with Geoff Evans and the DYC Sustainability Committee on pushing forward with a plan to halve the Club’s emissions and aspire to a net-zero future.

I carry with me not only new-found knowledge but also a sense of purpose and a network of friends who share a common passion for sailing and sustainability. Together, we will continue to make a positive impact, inspired by the legacy of Sir Peter Blake and the spirit of exploration that fuels our journeys.