The 2026 Auckland Wooden Boat Festival ran from 13 to 15 March, bringing life and energy to the city’s waterfront. Spread across the Viaduct Events Centre, Jellicoe Harbour, the New Zealand Maritime Museum, and the Percy Vos Heritage Boat Shed, the free event celebrated New Zealand’s wooden boat heritage.
More than 200 boats were on display both on and off the water, from classic yachts and kauri launches to dinghies, waka, and home-built craft. Many were open for boarding, offering a rare, hands-on experience. The waterfront also came alive with working steam engines, live boatbuilding, and rides aboard the traditional steam vessel SS Puke.
The programme extended well beyond the boats. Visitors attended seminars and talks, including Peter Faire’s presentation on the legacy of the K-Class Katrina II, alongside displays such as the Logan family’s historic tools and models. Demonstrations from marine engineers, sailmakers, and canvas specialists added depth to the experience.
Workshops, music, and family-friendly activities rounded out the weekend, supported by a strong turnout of volunteers, boat owners, and industry contributors. The festival highlighted Auckland’s deep connection to the sea and reinforced its place at the heart of wooden boat culture in New Zealand.
Boating New Zealand photographer Roger Mills attended the 2026 Auckland Wooden Boat Festival, capturing a wide range of standout wooden boats.
Explore his photo catalogue for a detailed look at the event.
My Father , Reg Morgan, purchased Kotuku C16 in 1955 (when I was 16,) and sold her in 1980?, giving us 25 years of squadron racing and Cruising as a family.
I am now 87 and live in Tauranga, and was not aware of this boat show of wooden boats, was on.
Question please, Was Kotuku displayed in this recent boat show?
Thank you
Garth Morgan 021 399934