Auckland Boat Show Opens Today: Celebrating 25 Years on the Water
by Zoe Hawkins/NZ Boat Show 4 Mar 14:38 PST
Opening day – New Zealand Boat Show – March 5, 2026 – Viaduct/Jellicoe Harbour © Richard Gladwell – Sail-World.com/nz
Auckland Boat Show Opens Today: Celebrating 25 Years on the Water
The 25th Auckland Boat Show has officially opened its doors at the Viaduct Events Centre and Jellicoe Harbour, marking a significant milestone in New Zealand’s marine culture, innovation, and industry excellence. This year represents a quarter-century celebration of the vibrant marine lifestyle that the nation embodies.
Since its inception in 1999, the Auckland Boat Show has evolved into New Zealand’s largest on-water boat showcase. This 25th anniversary edition features over 200 boats, 150 exhibitors, and more than 500 marine brands, showcasing both the historical and forward-looking perspectives of the industry.
Stacey Cook, the organiser of the Auckland Boat Show, expressed her pride at reaching this milestone. “For 25 years, this event has been embraced by the marine industry, focusing on excellence, innovation, and the boats that grace our waters. This commitment is what makes the show unique and continues its growth,” she shared.
Attendees are in for an impressive lineup that includes new boats, international premieres, and locally crafted vessels. The show highlights the robust New Zealand boatbuilding sector, alongside innovative designs from around the globe. Notably, approximately 30 boats are available for on-water sea trials, offering a rare opportunity for prospective buyers to evaluate craft under realistic conditions.
Cook invites visitors to engage directly with the creators of the vessels, saying, “You can step aboard, talk directly with the people who designed and built these boats, and, in many cases, take them out on the water.” This hands-on experience is unparalleled in New Zealand’s boating landscape.
Celebrating Women in Marine
In addition to the impressive maritime displays, the opening day has introduced an inaugural event focusing on women in the marine sector. This initiative aims to bolster diversity, confidence, and professional networks within the boating community. Leading figures from marine business, sailing, and outdoor recreation will engage attendees, promoting greater involvement and leadership opportunities for women in the industry.
“The marine sector is evolving,” Cook remarked. “We are dedicating space for women to connect, grow, and find clear pathways into leadership and ownership roles in boating.” This effort reflects an ongoing commitment to inclusivity within the marine field.
Knowledge, Expertise, and Inspiration
Beyond the allure of boats, the Auckland Boat Show presents attendees with extensive opportunities to glean knowledge from marine experts. Topics range from safety, sustainability, and fishing, to marine biosecurity and boating skills. Renowned industry specialists and community organizations will be sharing valuable insights through advice, practical demonstrations, and interactive experiences during the four-day event.
“Visitors are not only here to see what’s new, but they also seek to learn,” emphasizes Cook. “Boating is part of our DNA, and with that comes a profound desire to protect our marine environment while enhancing safety and skills.” This educational aspect is a cornerstone of the show, enriching the community’s engagement with the marine world.
Industry Momentum Returning
The show’s 25th anniversary also coincides with a renewed sense of confidence within the marine sector, which contributes approximately $3 billion to the New Zealand economy. Cook highlights, “There’s real energy in the industry again. This show is a celebration of our progress so far, but it’s equally about our vision for the future — embracing innovation, sustainability, and showcasing world-class craftsmanship that New Zealand is known for.”
The Auckland Boat Show will run from Thursday, March 5, to Sunday, March 8, 2026, at the Viaduct Events Centre and Jellicoe Harbour. Tickets are available online at www.auckland-boatshow.com.