36:16.7S 168.20.2E

18:30 local Sydney time. Sun down, or at least it looks like it is,  for it is now dark clouds all around as of last 2 hours.  Just seeing the first of the south side of the storm coming on,  wind picking up and the swell from cyclone intersecting the swell of the high pressure system south of us for first time noticeable, waves up.  Sea state still manageable, the decision for now is to head to round the N. Island.  Now 230miles east south east from the rounding point.

We’ll see how the weather goes overnight.   Reefed today the sails before wind picked up.

Will update in morning of if we have to change course other than routine tacks.

People in good spirits and David Mair’s birthday.  He’ll have to make due with red wine and chocolate for it and storm party at sea.

-Charles