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 opens today at Auckland's Viaduct Events Centre and Jellicoe Harbour, marking a milestone quarter-century celebration of New Zealand's marine lifestyle, innovation and industry excellence.
Since its first edition in 1999, the show has grown into the country's largest on-water boat showcase.
This 25th anniversary edition brings together more than 200 boats, 150 exhibitors and over 500 marine brands, reflecting both the heritage and future of the industry.
Auckland Boat Show organiser Stacey Cook says reaching the 25-year milestone is a proud moment for the industry.
"For 25 years this event has been owned by the marine industry and focused on excellence, innovation and boats in the water. That's what makes it special, and that's why it continues to grow."
Visitors will see an impressive line-up of new boats, international premieres and locally built vessels, highlighting the strength of New Zealand boatbuilding alongside global innovation. Around 30 boats are available for on-water sea trials, giving prospective buyers a rare opportunity to experience vessels in real conditions before making a decision.
"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," says Cook. "There's nothing else in New Zealand quite like that."
Celebrating women in marine
Opening day also features the inaugural Women in Marine event, designed to strengthen diversity, confidence and professional connections across the boating sector. The session brings together leading voices from marine business, sailing and outdoor recreation to encourage greater participation and leadership among women in the industry. "The marine sector is evolving," says Cook. "We want to create space for women to connect, grow and see clear pathways into leadership, ownership and participation on the water."
Knowledge, expertise and inspiration
Beyond the boats, the show offers extensive opportunities to learn from experts across safety, sustainability, fishing, marine biosecurity and boating skills. Industry specialists and community organisations will be sharing advice, practical demonstrations and interactive experiences throughout the four-day event.
"People come to see what's new, but they also come to learn," says Cook. "Boating is part of our DNA, and with that comes a real desire to protect the marine environment and improve safety and skills."
Industry momentum returning
The 25th anniversary show also reflects renewed confidence in the marine sector, which contributes approximately $3 billion to the New Zealand economy.
"There's real energy in the industry again," says Cook. "This show is a celebration of how far we've come, but it's also about where we're heading — innovation, sustainability and world-class New Zealand craftsmanship."
The Auckland Boat Show runs from Thursday 5 March to Sunday 8 March 2026 at the Viaduct Events Centre and Jellicoe Harbour. Tickets are online at www.auckland-boatshow.com