An RNZAF Orion has been taken off the search for a New Zealander lost overboard in the Pacific Ocean as hopes of his survival fade.

After 10,000 nautical miles and 68 days sailing alone all Graeme Kendall wanted was an apple and a beer.

Photos from the HSBC Premier Coastal Classic yacht race on the Hauraki Gulf.

All eyes will be on the jostling for position at the front of the Coastal Classic fleet this weekend.

The annual Coastal Classic yacht race from Devonport to Russell started this morning.

The men who damaged the Waihopai spy base are being chased for $1,229,289, including the cost of beer, juice and savouries for staff who worked to repair the damage.

Team New Zealand were today formally crowned Med Cup yachting champions again.

Fifty-seven years after Sir Edmund Hillary scaled Everest, Kiwi sailor Graeme Kendall has knocked another bastard off.

A last placing in the day's opening race today dropped Team New Zealand from the head of the fleet in the Med Cup regatta in Italy.

Defending champions Team New Zealand were back in a familiar position today after the opening day of the final Med Cup event.

Team New Zealand, who have a second Med Cup title almost in their grasp, will look to finish the season off in style.

Team New Zealand boss Grant Dalton said Russell Coutts' new vision for the America's Cup puts BMW Oracle at a clear advantage.