The Auckland Boat Show turns 25 this year, and the focus is unmistakably local.
From 5 to 8 March 2026, the Viaduct Events Centre will once again fill with boats on land and water. Around 150 exhibitors are expected, with more than 200 vessels on display. Yet what stands out this year is not just scale, but confidence. New Zealand design and build sits firmly at the front of the line-up.
A Cook Strait brief, built in Tauranga
One of the more closely watched launches will be the 13.8 metre Elite Kaeā, the first build from Tauranga’s Marra Marine. Designed by Bill Upfold of Elite Marine Design, the brief was straightforward: create a Cook Strait commuter that could handle the rough stuff without feeling like a workboat.
That thinking says something about where custom builds are heading. Owners still want offshore ability, but they also expect refinement. Efficient hull forms, practical range and comfortable interiors now sit alongside seaworthiness as baseline requirements.
Elsewhere, Offshore Boats New Zealand will unveil its 1100 HTC foil assisted power catamaran. It is aimed squarely at offshore fishing, diving and longer stays away from the marina. Stability and fuel efficiency are no longer talking points, they are buying decisions.
Hamilton builder Fin Chaser brings its 800 Hard Top amphibious vessel, with sea trials available. Amphibious boats have settled into their own space in the market, particularly for owners who value independent launching and shallow water access.
Tristram Marine will present its APEX Edition aboard the latest 821 Offshore, leaning into systems integration and finish. Allan Tongs Boatbuilders returns with the Elite AT43 production model, while Takacat goes in the opposite direction entirely with the 14 kilogram T220UL inflatable catamaran.
Global brands, serious cruising
The international presence remains strong. The Grand Banks 54 makes its Auckland appearance, carrying its reputation for range and economy. The Finnish built SARGO 45 arrives with its purposeful adventure look, while multihull buyers can step aboard the Excess 11 and Seawind 1170.
XO’s Defender continues to attract interest in the adventure segment. New models from Jeanneau, Prestige, Riviera and Maritimo will also feature, including the M55 and M75 flybridge motor yachts.
That blend of local and international is part of what keeps the Auckland Boat Show relevant. You can step from a Kiwi custom build to a global production cruiser within a few metres of dock.
Systems, control and quieter running
Beyond hulls and layouts, equipment continues to move forward.
Yamaha Marine New Zealand will demonstrate its Helm Master EX wireless control system, allowing skippers to manoeuvre at low speed from anywhere onboard. Honda will run new outboards on sea trials, giving buyers the chance to feel differences rather than read specifications.
Italian manufacturer Frigomar, represented locally by Boatgear, will showcase marine air conditioning and refrigeration systems built around variable speed inverter technology, designed to reduce power draw and cabin noise.
With more than 1.3 kilometres of boats afloat and around 30 vessels available for sea trials, the show remains one of the few places in the country where owners can compare builds, systems and ideas in one walk.
The 25th edition does not need fireworks. It reflects an industry that continues to evolve quietly and confidently, lifting capability without abandoning practicality.
The 25th Auckland Boat Show runs from Thursday 5 March to Sunday 8 March 2026 at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland. Tickets are on sale now, click here for the site.
