The Ocean Race, one of the most gruelling and prestigious offshore sailing events in the world, is set to return to Auckland in 2027. In 2027 it will be just under 50 years since the first visit of the Whitbread Round The World Ocean Race, through its various iterations the race has visited Auckland many times (and Wellington once).
This visit will mark the 12th time that New Zealand has hosted an Ocean Race stopover, reinforcing the country’s deep-rooted connection to global sailing. But beyond the spectacle of high-performance yachts and elite sailors, what does this event mean for New Zealand?
Many of our readers will recall the recent Vendée Globe round-the-world race, we covered the lone Kiwi in that race with near-daily reports, chatting to him often, and presenting the latest in his voyage — the Ocean Race employs the same vessel, the IMOCA-60 – a 60 foot, racing machine. Having watched that race, single handed round the world, I am already getting excited for the Ocean Race, moreover the Auckland stop now scheduled!
Auckland’s Maritime Legacy Strengthened
Auckland, the “City of Sails,” has been an integral part of The Ocean Race’s history since the 1977-78 edition, when it was still the Whitbread Round the World Race. Over the decades, Kiwi sailing legends such as Sir Peter Blake, Grant Dalton, Peter Burling, and Blair Tuke have cemented New Zealand’s reputation as a dominant force in offshore racing. The 2027 stopover, just one year shy of the event’s 50th anniversary, adds another chapter to this legacy.
For New Zealand’s competitive sailing community, hosting the race again provides invaluable exposure to the next generation of sailors. Young Kiwi athletes dreaming of offshore racing will have a front-row seat to witness world-class competition, inspiring them to take on the challenge themselves.
Economic and Tourism Boost
Major international events bring significant economic benefits – we have only recently seen that with the SailGP, and The Ocean Race is no exception. The New Zealand government has pledged up to $4 million to support the stopover, recognising its potential to drive tourism and local business growth. Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, which will host the race village—Ocean Live Park—will see an influx of visitors, including international sailing teams, media, and fans. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses will benefit from the increased foot traffic during the two-week festival.
The 2018 edition of The Ocean Race saw thousands of visitors flock to Auckland, generating millions in economic activity. With international travel back in full swing, 2027 promises to deliver another financial uplift to the city and the wider marine industry.
Environmental and Educational Impact
Beyond the competition, The Ocean Race has a strong focus on ocean conservation, aligning with New Zealand’s environmental values. The race’s Learning Programme will collaborate with local schools to increase ocean literacy, encouraging students to engage with sustainability initiatives. As a nation deeply connected to the sea, this aligns with existing efforts to protect and restore marine ecosystems.
The event also serves as a platform to promote New Zealand’s leadership in sustainable sailing technology. With increasing innovation in eco-friendly yacht design and alternative energy solutions, local marine businesses and boatbuilders can showcase their advancements on a global stage.
A Cultural Celebration of Sailing
The stopover will be more than just a sporting event—it will be a celebration of New Zealand’s rich maritime culture. Ocean Live Park will offer public events, interactive exhibits, and opportunities for Kiwis to connect with the world’s best sailors.
The excitement of seeing cutting-edge foiling yachts up close, combined with the history of past New Zealand victories, ensures a festival-like atmosphere that will engage both die-hard sailing fans and casual spectators. For a country where sailing is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life—hosting The Ocean Race is a moment of national pride.
Looking Ahead
Auckland joins Alicante, Spain, and Amaala, Saudi Arabia, as confirmed stopover cities for the 2027 edition of The Ocean Race, with more locations to be announced. As preparations begin, New Zealand stands to gain from its role as the exclusive Southern Ocean stopover.
From inspiring future sailors to boosting the economy, promoting sustainability, and celebrating maritime culture, The Ocean Race’s return to Auckland is a win for the country. Come March 2027, New Zealand will once again take centre stage in the world of offshore sailing.
