I've been sailing since a teenager - dinghy racing and more - in the UK (Southampton).   When we moved to Auckland NZ from the UK in 1996 I did a bit of race crewing in a Ross 930. My wife and I bought a Davidson 28 in 2000 and then spent 22 years cruising extensively around the Hauraki Gulf including  several trips to Great Barrier (and the odd race).  Since 2023 we have been slowly refitting and coastal cruising a Carpenter 37 between Bay of Island and Auckland.

Since joining Crew-seeker in May 2025 I have gained around 2800 nautical miles off-shore yachting experience as a crew member and added training qualifications in Advanced Sea Survival and Offshore Medical.  My plan is to get further experience and knowledge and head offshore with the rally in future.  

Offshore experience:

• Fiji to NZ Marsden Cove 1300nm (48ft yacht - crew of 3), October 2025
• Sydney to Nelson 1200 nm (NZ South Island).  40ft yacht - crew of 4, November 2025
• Nelson to Milford Sound, Fiordland (NZ South Island).  40ft yacht crew of 4, March 2026

Formal training and qualifications:

• Advanced Sea Survival - August 2025
• Coastal and Offshore Medic - July 2025
• NZ Boatmaster 1999
• VHF Radio Operator 2000
• Inboard and Outboard Engine  Maintenance 2000
• RYA Competent Crew and Day Skipper (classroom and practical courses) 1989

Now retired my situation means that I am able to be totally flexible on departure date and will make myself available as required for familiarisation.   Worth also noting that I remain very fit and active. I’m a keen runner, cyclist and kayaker and used to do the odd multi-sport event including Coast 2 Coast.   

If you need more details happy to supply as needed.

Availability from July 2026.  I've accepted a crewing slot on a 40ft yacht from NZ to Fiji - late May/early June 2026.  

Cheers

Chris

+64 21 394783

cplangstaff@gmail.com