New Zealanders’ love affair with all things marine will return in 2024, with dates for the country’s largest on water boat show released.
The Auckland Boat Show fills downtown Auckland with marinas showcasing the best of New Zealand-built boats and the latest international innovations in marine. Set to run from 14 to 17 March 2024, it’s positioned to form part of a plethora of on-water activities in 2024’s summer, including regattas and festivals which celebrate Auckland’s identity as the City of Sails.
The show has become known for its large marina display spreading through Jellicoe Harbour, the space flanking the former America’s Cup bases. Set in the heart of downtown Auckland’s vibrant Wynyard Quarter, the show cements the relationship between this traditionally-maritime neighbourhood and the modern meeting point it has become, connecting Aucklanders to the ocean.
On-land exhibits will complement the on-water component of the show, taking over the Viaduct Event Centre once again in central Auckland’s buzzing Wynyard Quarter.
The Auckland Boat Show is known for its unique sea trial area; the only one of its kind in a New Zealand boat show, sea trials form a crucial component of the event. With the show set in the Waitematā Harbour manufacturers and brokers are able to demonstrate vessels in their element to buyers, allowing them to bring performance, sea-kindliness and handling to the forefront.
The show’s dates see it take its place as part of a summer of marine events supported by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited. It will form part of a festival of harbour-based events, creating a celebratory atmosphere with the New Zealand Millennium Cup superyacht regatta to be raced from 23 to 26 February in Auckland, and Sail GP coming to Auckland’s waters from 23 to 24 March.
“With the show staged during daylight savings, in New Zealand’s beautiful summer weather, gives us the chance to promote the lifestyle boating offers,” says show organiser, Stacey Cook.
Tickets are on sale now; get in quick.