The second annual d’Urville Island Cocksy Classic drew record numbers, ideal conditions and plenty of character over the weekend, as anglers embraced one of the country’s most distinctive charity fishing events where creativity and camaraderie matter just as much as the catch.
Far from a traditional tournament, the Cocksy Classic blends quirky categories with good-natured banter and the odd bit of friendly sabotage.
Anglers and divers compete for the coveted Golden Fleece Award, which brings a year of bragging rights, Cocksy’s Golden Work Boot Trophy, and the honour of wearing the iconic yellow shirt at the following year’s event.
Fishing opened at 12.01am on Saturday, but eager teams were already in position after heading out on Friday night to be ready the moment the clock ticked over. A light wind added interest, but conditions otherwise made for a standout weekend on the water.
This year’s Golden Fleece was claimed by team Black Hawk, who travelled from Kaikōura and fully embraced the spirit of the competition. From elaborate costumes to “capturing” a mermaid and producing a standout entry in the inaugural Tradie Bake Off, their enthusiasm set them apart.
The event garnered 143 anglers from Kaikoura, Picton, Blenheim, Nelson, Christchurch, Wellington, and a team that drove from Dunedin towing their boat to enter.
Although it’s not about the biggest fish, some of the skites for the day were: kingi 134cm, snapper 73cm, kahawai 61cm, blue cod 55cm, and a whopping 4Kkg red crayfish.
Other fun categories in the competition are Creative Catch - for which participants make something to enter - and Tradie Bake-off section.
Now in its second year at d’Urville, the southern edition continues to grow with support from ITM – Top of the South stores, who have backed the competition since its South Island introduction.
The Cocksy Classic raises funds for Kiwi Kids Charity, a grassroots organisation run by event organiser and wife of the late Cocksy, Dana Cocks. The charity supports children and communities throughout New Zealand through practical initiatives, with all proceeds from the event going directly back into its work.
Originally established six years ago in Tairua as a memorial to John “Cocksy” Cocks, known for his appearances on Treasure Island and My House, My Castle, the competition has grown into two annual events, one in the North Island and one in the South.
That expansion has sparked a friendly but fierce North versus South rivalry, adding an extra fundraising edge. While the final fundraising totals remain under wraps, organisers say both islands have stepped up this year.
With record turnout and strong community spirit, the d’Urville Cocksy Classic has now cemented its place as one of the South Island’s most unique and entertaining fishing competitions.
