Leaving Otago Harbour behind yesterday morning as they sail north on an eight-month journey around New Zealand are the Haase family, Jorg, Katrin, Mara (13) and Frauke (12).
After selling their home in Dunedin and packing their possessions on to their 8.5-long H28 yacht, the intrepid family members hope to make their way around the North Island before travelling down the West Coast of the South Island and returning to Dunedin.
It will be the longest distance Mr Haase, who began sailing five years ago, has travelled on a yacht.The family left the Otago Yacht Club at 7am, sailing through thick fog which cleared once they passed the head of the harbour, Mrs Haase said.
They hope to arrive in Akaroa by tomorrow, she said.
Both of the girls will continue their education through Correspondence School and Mr and Mrs Haase will seek work along the way if needed.
