A river with racing heritage
The Whanganui River will again roar to life in January as the Wanganui Motor Boat Club hosts its celebrated King of the River Regatta. The two-day event, set for 10–11 January 2026, will showcase the very best of New Zealand powerboat racing.
Founded in 1922 and formally incorporated in 1925, the Wanganui Motor Boat Club is one of the country’s longest-standing boating organisations. In its early days, the club staged races monthly, with one major regatta each year. That tradition has evolved into the modern King of the River weekend — a true summer highlight.
King of the River and feature events
The centrepiece is the King of the River race, a title that carries both prestige and history. The event regularly draws fierce competition, with recent winner Brendon Cornes proving a standout by retaining his crown in 2024.
Alongside the title race, the Series 3000 and Pro Cam championships will feature as part of the regatta. These high-speed classes ensure spectators are treated to the full spectrum of powerboat racing — from raw horsepower to precision handling.
A calendar highlight
The regatta’s reputation extends beyond Whanganui. It’s a fixture on the New Zealand powerboat calendar, known for its lively community atmosphere and challenging river course. Crews and fans alike see the event as a chance to celebrate both the sport and the river that has hosted generations of racing.
As the club itself noted in its recent announcement: “Lock it in! We are thrilled to announce that the Wanganui Motor Boat Club will be holding our annual regatta on the 10th/11th January 2026! The countdown has officially started.”
Looking ahead
With a century of history behind it and new chapters yet to be written, the King of the River Regatta remains a cornerstone of Kiwi powerboat racing. The 2026 edition promises two days of speed, skill, and riverbank excitement.
Mark the dates — January 10–11, 2026 — and prepare for another unforgettable showdown on the Whanganui River.
