Another year has passed, and the Wharf Trust again requested that the RŪNĀ programme leads at the Russell Boat Club identify a suitable recipient for the Tim Grant memorial sponsorship for a voyage on board the R. Tucker Thompson. This year’s fortunate rangatahi was Tawhiti Hook, a student at Waikare School, so Jay Howell and Bruce Mitchinson went out to the school to present the award.

The voyage was from 29th September – 5th October and both Bruce and Jane went to see the voyage off. With his prior knowledge of sailing and the Bay, it was great to see that Tawhiti was so comfortable on board, that he took the helm as the ship left the dock and headed out to sea.

The voyage took the trainees through the islands in the Bay for a variety of experiences, then it was round out of the Bay to Whangamumu, to explore the whaling station.

The trainees set all sails, enjoyed bowsprit riding, and joined Project Island Song to learn about pest-free islands while helping weed invasive plants. Swimming, diving for kina, and ship hide-and-seek under the stars added fun and reflection. Snorkelling at Deep Water Cove revealed large snapper, followed by a bomb competition, sun-soaked deck time, and sailing past Motukokako before exploring Whangamumu’s historic whaling station. Despite grey skies, the trainees embraced morning swims, chores, and the Tucker Challenge, climbing the mast and driving the tender before beach games, bush walks, and hearty meals. Other highlights of the voyage included seeing plenty of seals and dolphins, a nighttime kiwi walk, and a camp fire on the beach.

The voyage prepares the trainees to take over the ship on second to last day, and they elect who they want as their Master, Navigator and First Mate. On “Takeover Day” Tawhiti was nominated as First Mate, demonstrating strong knowledge of all sail stations and effectively directing trainees with a firm but effective approach. On this particular Takeover day, the trainees had to lead the ship back from Whangamumu through rough seas around Cape Brett, showing resilience before reaching calm waters at Motuarohia Island. A final hike to the lookout and a celebratory roast dinner marked the end of an unforgettable journey of challenges, teamwork, growth, and companionship before returning back to Ōpua, the following day.

Tawhiti enjoyed his experience on the ship so much that he has signed up to be a volunteer on board the R. Tucker Thompson over summer, showing our manuhiri (visitors) the ropes on board, and of course his home, the beautiful Bay of Islands. Tumeke, awesome Tawhiti!