Coach & Co-founder
Pete Linford
Experience
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Pete is a specialist sailing educator with over a decade of professional coaching experience. He transformed the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) Learn to Sail programme, lectures in nautical studies at Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT), and has coached all levels from beginners to the New Zealand Invictus Games team;
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As a skipper for local cruise operators, Pete has worked across sailing yachts, powerboats, and ferries;
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Additionally, Pete has years of club racing experience as well as completion of numerous coastal deliveries.
Qualifications
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New Zealand Certificate in Domestic Maritime Operations (Skipper Restricted Limits) with 24m and passenger endorsements;
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International Yacht Training (IYT) Coach;
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Yachting New Zealand coaching certificates across dinghy, keelboat, and racing;
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Halberg Disability Sport Foundation inclusive coaching certificate.
With a background in engineering and finance, Pete brings calm professionalism, strong technical knowledge, and a genuine passion for helping people gain confidence on the water.
Coach & Co-founder
Steve Plank
Experience
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Steve has spent over 30 years and 25,000+ nautical miles at the helm. He's raced extensively in New Zealand, including numerous Coastal Classic races and the Round North Island race in 2023;
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When not exploring the Hauraki Gulf, Steve often spends the NZ winter sailing his yacht Sweetwaters around the Pacific Islands, with significant time in Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia.
Beyond the water, Steve has spent over three decades in the corporate world in technology, financial services, and primary industries, and has been involved in starting a few businesses, including an organic farm.
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Overall, Steve combines deep blue-water experience with a calm, safety-first approach. With a strong focus on seamanship, navigation, and crew leadership, Steve is known for his clear communication and ability to keep both new and experienced sailors confident and comfortable at sea.
Qualifications
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New Zealand Certificate in Domestic Maritime Operations (Skipper Restricted Limits);
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International Yacht Training (IYT) Bareboat Instructor;
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Coastguard Boat Master;
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VHF Radio Operator’s Certificate;
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Offshore Ocean Medic;
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Advanced Sea Survival.Â
