Boats, technology and new products may draw the crowds to the Auckland Boat Show which starts this Thursday, but learning, sharing knowledge and connecting with experts are just as big a part of the experience for thousands of boat enthusiasts.
Specialists from across the marine sector will be at this year’s 25th anniversary show helping boat owners build deeper understanding of sustainability, safety, marine biosecurity and fishing success.
Participating groups include LegaSea’s fishing and sustainability advocates, Auckland Coastguard, marine and island biosecurity experts, the Wild Chix community for women, and the team from Monster Fishing, who will offer advice on selecting the right gear and lures for local conditions.
Mike Plant of the New Zealand Sportfishing Council says the show provides a rare opportunity for meaningful conversations about both the marine environment and boating safety.
“Our boats are a big part of our lives — many owners prioritise boating over other luxuries,” he says. “That connection naturally drives a desire to learn more about protecting the environment and staying safe on the water.”
Throughout the weekend the host of TradeZone Addicted to Fishing Nicky Sinden, will run Kids Fishing Workshops, giving children confidence skills and safety knowledge.
Marine biosecurity specialists will share information on threats such as exotic caulerpa, Japanese mantis shrimp and other marine pests at the ‘Clean Below? Good to Go’ stand. Visitors can also experience a virtual reality session with BLAKE New Zealand and, at selected times, meet Auckland Council’s biosecurity detector dogs and learn about efforts to protect Hauraki Gulf islands.
New exhibitor Monster Fishing will showcase premium Japanese fishing rods, lures and tackle systems newly available in New Zealand, alongside expert advice drawn from daily engagement with passionate fishers.
“Our team talks fishing all day, every day,” says Cory Morton-Jones from Monster Fishing. “We’re looking forward to sharing what we know with fellow enthusiasts.”
Alongside the latest boats and marine technology, the Auckland Boat Show continues to offer something equally valuable — knowledge, connection and inspiration for responsible, enjoyable time on the water.
Whether it’s time, childcare, confidence or something else, women new to a sport like boating can need a little support to get out onto the sea and Isabell Zitzelsberger, founder of the Wild Chix community, has tapped into a hunger for the outdoors, learning new skills, and camaraderie. What started as a side hustle is now a full-time business with rapid growth in demand and a wait list. “It’s normal for guys to cook but not for women to fish,” she says. “Women want to take their kids fishing, to know what rod to use, and how to manage a boat. I’d love to normalise that.”
The 25th Auckland Boat Show takes place from Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 March 2026 at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland. With more than 1.3km of boats on the water it focuses on supporting industry growth and sustainability and features zones for careers, sustainability, high-end charters, and sea trials, all with interactive activations and educational pieces. Tickets are on sale now at www.auckland-boatshow.com.
