Our Story
“Education is the key to achieving our objectives, to educate in this day and age you have to entertain and stimulate”
Our story began in 2008, inspired by the remarkable legacy of Sir Peter Blake and his esteemed racing teams. Fueled by a passion for preserving New Zealand's rich sailing heritage and instilling values of leadership, courage, and teamwork in the next generation, the New Zealand Sailing Trust was born.
At our inception, our primary mission was clear: to safeguard the iconic yacht, Lion New Zealand, ensuring it remained a symbol of maritime excellence for generations to come. In 2012 Lion New Zealand was joined by Steinlager 2, returning to home waters from a spell as a private charter. From this noble goal, our vision expanded to encompass a broader purpose - to provide transformative sailing experiences for young New Zealanders.
We embarked on our journey with determination, driven by the belief that every young person, regardless of background, should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of the open sea and the camaraderie of sailing. Collaborating with schools from all deciles, including those from underserved communities, over 1200 young Kiwis nationwide, have had a chance to embark on life-changing adventures aboard our historic vessels - Steinlager 2 and Lion New Zealand.
As we ventured into the pristine waters of the Tīkapa Moana / Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, we realised the profound impact our programs could have beyond the realm of sailing. Our maritime environment, a treasure of New Zealand, became our classroom, teaching young hearts the importance of resilience, stewardship, and environmental conservation.
Through wind and wave, we navigate not only the seas but also the hearts and minds of our youth, instilling in them a deep appreciation for the great outdoors and a sense of responsibility towards protecting our marine ecosystems.
Today, our story continues to unfold, driven by the belief that by preserving the past, we shape the future. With every sail unfurled and every young sailor inspired, we reaffirm our commitment to building a brighter, more resilient tomorrow for New Zealand - one voyage at a time.