Auckland flies high

High-energy show with strong industry engagement

The event, now in its 24th year, continues to cement itself as New Zealand’s premier boat show, bringing together marine professionals, boat builders, suppliers, and enthusiasts from across the region and beyond. Its enduring popularity and growing international appeal make it a must-attend occasion for both industry insiders and boating aficionados alike.

The Auckland Boat Show has long been known as the launching pad for cutting-edge products and vessel debuts, and 2025 was no exception.

Event organiser Stacey Cook was delighted with the quality of new releases, as well as the breadth of industry-leading brands choosing the show as their platform for innovation. “The show is fantastic at showcasing new launches, and we’ve been thrilled with the calibre of this year’s marine industry debuts,” said Cook.

“From clever new technology like Sea Turner’s tender launching system and See-LEVEL’s innovative sea sickness solution, to show-stopping vessels like Lloyd Stevenson’s Catalyst tender and the two stunning Sunreef Yachts catamarans on display, the diversity of offerings this year has been outstanding.”

The event continues to be a place where the industry not only presents its latest advancements but also connects with the boating community at large, providing opportunities for hands-on experiences, product demonstrations, and face-to-face conversations with experts.

As a show designed to celebrate all facets of the marine industry, the Auckland Boat Show attracts both longstanding exhibitors and exciting new players, fostering connections and driving the sector forward.

“This has been our first New Zealand show, and we’ve been absolutely thrilled with the response we’ve received here, and the warm reception from visitors towards the brands we represent,” said Lauren Thomas of Short Marine.

The strong industry engagement was also reflected at Friday night’s exhibitor function, where NZ Marine Industry Association President Tracey Stevenson underscored the importance of collaboration and resilience within the sector.

“In our industry, we are constantly collaborating and pushing each other forward,” said Stevenson. “It’s no secret that it has been a challenging time for business, but looking around the show, it’s evident that the New Zealand marine industry continues to demonstrate strength, adaptability, and a real drive to innovate and overcome challenges.”

Recognition from the City of Sails

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown was on-site to welcome more than 200 businesses and organisations exhibiting at the show, recognising the city’s deep-rooted connection to the maritime world.

“It’s great to be here for the 2025 Auckland Boat Show,” said Brown. “New Zealand has a well-earned global reputation for designing, building, storing, selling, and servicing both recreational and commercial vessels, and it’s fantastic to see this expertise on display.

“We all know the market is moderately tricky at the moment, but the atmosphere here is filled with enthusiasm, innovation, and a genuine sense of camaraderie. Everyone I’ve spoken to has been positive and friendly, and that speaks volumes about the industry’s resilience and the spirit of this event.”

His words resonated with exhibitors and attendees alike, reaffirming the Auckland Boat Show’s role as a vital platform for business development and industry advancement.

Strong future for the Auckland Boat Show

As the event wrapped up, organisers reflected on another successful edition that brought together leading brokers, boatbuilders, and marine brands from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. With its continued commitment to innovation, quality, and industry engagement, the Auckland Boat Show remains a key date on the global boating calendar.

“The visitors we’ve welcomed through the doors this year have been highly engaged, arriving with targeted enquiries and a strong interest in quality marine products,” said Cook. “The calibre of buyers has been impressive, and we’ve seen some fantastic connections being made.”

With a thriving local marine industry and a reputation for pioneering world-class technology, New Zealand continues to push the boundaries of marine innovation.

“We are a marine nation, and it makes sense that we lead the world in creating better ways to be safer, faster, and more sustainable on the water,” added Cook.

Hillary Buckman, Editor-in-Chief of Ocean Media, praised the show’s exceptional mix of business and lifestyle. “The Auckland Boat Show delivered it all – spectacular yachts, great company, incredible food, and Auckland showing off with fabulous weather.

“From catching up with industry friends and many of our local readers and boat owners to stepping aboard some of the finest vessels, it was the perfect mix of business and pleasure.”

As the curtain closes on the 2025 event, industry players are already looking forward to what the future holds, with confidence that the Auckland Boat Show will continue to evolve, inspire, and drive progress within the marine sector.

auckland-boatshow.com