In 1922 a very fine clubhouse was built, financed by debentures taken up by various members. The final monies were raised publicly by holding a bazaar as soon as the building was completed.
Many types of yachts were sailed in the early days. In 1929 the "Idle Along" class of yacht was designed and introduced by Mr. Alf Harvey. The Idle Along soon became firmly established throughout New Zealand due to its manageable size, performance, and ease of construction. In 1936 the first interprovincial contest for the Moffat Cup was sailed in the Idle Along class. Heretaunga Boating Club crews won the Moffat Cup three times.
The club made steady progress as the years went on. However, in 1936 the clubhouse was destroyed by fire, causing considerable loss and disorganization. The spirit within the club rallied and a new building was completed in 1940.
During the 1935 - 1945 war years, many members served their country and the clubs activities were subdued. Because of the clubs strategic position on the foreshore, the Navy commandeered the building in 1942 for defense purposes. The club continued activities in a borrowed shed at the eastern end of the beach.
Activities returned to normal, and the first club owned "Rescue Boat" was purchased in 1955, and was named "Heretaunga 1". This was a double ended, open boat. It was a popular, and sometimes welcome sight for many years along the Petone waterfront.
The western end of the clubhouse was extended in 1955 to accommodate boats that had been stored at the eastern end of the beach.
Club Interior, 1922
