The Auckland Boat Show has once again lived up to its reputation, wrapping up its 24th edition in exceptional style with exhibitors reporting strong interest, high-quality enquiries, and an overwhelmingly positive outlook for the future of the marine industry. From innovative marine technology to dazzling luxury vessels, the event showcased the resilience and creativity driving New Zealand’s boating community.
Perfect conditions and enthusiastic crowds
Blessed with four consecutive days of perfect sunshine, this year’s Auckland Boat Show attracted visitors eager to explore the impressive 1.3 kilometres of boats lined along Auckland’s waterfront. With 222 boats on display, the event provided an extensive range of marine vessels—from nimble production RIBs to luxurious catamarans.
Exhibitors shared their delight, capturing the sentiment echoed by many participants. Craig Torckler of R Marine summarised his experience succinctly:
“If I had one word for this show it would be awesome. Great show, great weather, and great people.”
Innovation takes centre stage
A highlight of the Auckland Boat Show is always its status as the launchpad for the latest marine innovations and new product releases, and this year was no different. The 2025 event featured some exciting marine products that captivated visitors’ attention.
JP CRAFTS showcased their new production RIB, impressing attendees with its combination of robust performance and practicality. Exhibitor Nicky Malcon was enthusiastic about the feedback, noting the upbeat atmosphere:
“It’s been a fun show with great, high energy, and we’re feeling a lot of positivity in the industry for the future.”
Not to be outdone, Sea Turner demonstrated its smart, user-friendly tender lifting and stowing system, providing an elegant solution to a common boating challenge. Similarly, See-LEVEL introduced a novel approach to combating sea sickness, highlighting how technology continues to enhance comfort at sea.
Amongst the vessels making waves were Lloyd Stevenson’s sleek Catalyst tender and two magnificent Sunreef Yachts catamarans, each drawing admiration from seasoned sailors and newcomers alike.
Warm welcome for new exhibitors
This year’s event attracted a healthy mix of familiar faces and new exhibitors, all appreciating the opportunity to connect directly with the boating public. For Short Marine’s Lauren Thomas, the event was particularly significant:
“This has been our first New Zealand show, and we’ve been thrilled with the reception we’ve had here, and visitors’ response to the brands we represent.”
The diversity and calibre of exhibitors underscored the show’s strength in facilitating meaningful industry connections and fostering collaboration.
Industry resilience celebrated
Speaking at the exhibitor function, Tracey Stevenson, President of the New Zealand Marine Industry Association, highlighted the sector’s resilience and collaborative spirit during recent challenging economic conditions.
“It’s been a challenging time for business, but looking around the show we can see the resilience of the New Zealand marine industry in innovating and meeting these challenges.”
Echoing Stevenson’s sentiment, Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown acknowledged the show’s importance to the marine industry and the city itself, reinforcing the event’s value to local and international marine businesses.
“In New Zealand, we design, build, store, sell and service recreational and commercial vessels. It’s a moderately tricky market at the moment, but everyone here has been positive and friendly.”
Mayor Brown emphasised the vital role the marine industry plays in Auckland’s economic and recreational life, encouraging attendees to fully enjoy the event and hospitality provided.
Positive outlook for future growth
Events Manager and Export Manager
NZ Marine Industry Association. Photo credit: LinkedIn
Show organiser Stacey Cook was particularly pleased with the level of targeted, high-quality enquiries reported by exhibitors. She emphasised how important the Auckland Boat Show remains as a platform for promoting the marine industry’s innovations and growth potential:
“The people who have been coming through the door have come with targeted enquiries and plenty of quality buyers coming through.”
She continued, highlighting the unique strength New Zealand holds within the marine world:
“We’re 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.”
Setting sail for success
With another successful Auckland Boat Show concluded, exhibitors, visitors, and industry leaders alike depart buoyed by optimism. The 2025 event has clearly demonstrated that the marine community in New Zealand remains resilient, innovative, and ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead.
From cutting-edge technology to extraordinary vessels, the show has once again affirmed its status as a must-attend event on the international marine calendar, setting the scene perfectly for an exciting year ahead on the water.
