Young Tauranga sailing coach Noah Kota has been named the Yachting New Zealand Emerging Coach of the Year.

Kota, 20, a Tauranga Yacht and Power Boat Club coach, was recognised at this year’s Barfoot and Thompson Yachting Excellence Awards at Royal Akarana Yacht Club in Auckland on Friday.

The Yachting New Zealand Emerging Coach of the Year Award recognises the contribution of developing coaches to sailing and the important role they play in helping sailors of different ages and abilities enjoy and progress in the sport.

Kota has introduced about 820 school students to sailing in the past year through the Rūnā schools programme. He has also become an important part of the club’s coaching team, working across school programmes, Learn to Sail, holiday programmes, have-a-go days and adult sailing.

Club general manager Jo West said Kota had a genuine enthusiasm for people, sailing and the moana, and he had made a huge impact during his first two seasons as a coach.

“Noah has a natural ability to connect with sailors of all ages and abilities. His calm, patient and encouraging manner creates an environment where participants feel safe, supported and confident to challenge themselves,” West said.

“He has a remarkable ability to inspire young people, helping them build confidence on the water while fostering a genuine enthusiasm for the sport. What sets Noah apart is his genuine care for every sailor he coaches.”

West said his achievements with the Rūnā programme, alongside his other coaching commitments, had shown his potential as a leader in sailing coaching.

Kota has also been learning skills in boat repairs and maintenance and becoming more involved in the club’s wider operations.

Yachting New Zealand chief executive Steve Armitage said the awards recognised performance and the wider contribution of those who helped get people out on the water.

“For very obvious reasons, we tend to focus on excellence as something that is measured by results: a medal, a podium, a regatta win.

“Make no mistake, those things matter, and we will always chase them. But excellence takes many forms, and some of the most important ones never appear on a results sheet.”

Other award recipients included Seb Menzies and George Lee Rush, who took the top honour as Orbit World Travel Sailors of the Year after winning the 49er world and European titles, while Rebecca Gmuer-Hornell was named Female Sailor of the Year.

The awards also recognised the coaches, officials, volunteers and community contributors helping sailing thrive around the country.