This delightful naïve nineteenth century watercolour by an amateur artist depicts the regatta held in Whangarei in 1887. It still has its Victorian gothic kauri frame.

The regatta was described in the local papers:

On Wednesday, December 21st, was held the best ever regatta ever witnessed in the harbour, both from the quality of the boats and closeness of the races. The steamship WELLINGTON was, by the courtesy of the Northern Steamship Company, placed at the disposal of the committee to do duty as flagship, while the steam tenders KATIKAI and PLANET brought passengers from Mangapai and Parua Bay respectively.

Northern Advocate and Whangarei County Gazette, 24 December 1887.