Auckland Boat Show: New Zealand boatbuilding innovation will head 2026 show
by Zoe Hawkins 26 Feb 00:05 NZDT
Zaphira - 18m Elite - Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders © Bryce Taylor.
New Zealand boatbuilding innovation will headline a strong line-up of new launches, technology releases and international premieres at the Auckland Boat Show, 5–8 March 2026, with locally designed and built vessels leading the charge at the country’s premier marine event as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Among the standout Kiwi debuts is the elegant 13.8m Elite Kaea, the first build from Tauranga’s Marra Marine. Designed by Bill Upfold of Elite Marine Design, the vessel was conceived as a capable Cook Strait commuter combining offshore confidence, efficiency and refined cruising comfort — a clear example of the evolving sophistication of New Zealand custom boatbuilding.
Offshore Boats New Zealand will unveil its new 1100 HTC foil-assisted power catamaran, developed for offshore fishing, diving and extended cruising, while Hamilton builder Fin Chaser will debut its Fin Chaser 800 Hard Top amphibious vessel, available for sea trials. Tristram Marine will also present its new APEX Edition specification aboard the latest 821 Offshore, highlighting top-tier system integration in the trailer boat sector. Takacat will debut its ultra-light T220UL inflatable catamaran, weighing just 14kg, and Allan Tongs Boatbuilders will showcase the latest and very popular Elite AT43 production model.
International debuts will add further interest, including the Grand Banks 54 long-range cruiser, making its Auckland Boat Show appearance with its reputation for fuel efficiency, extended cruising capability and timeless design. Other premieres include the Finnish-built SARGO 45 adventure cruiser, the Excess 11 performance catamaran, Seawind 1170 multihull, XO Defender adventure boat and new Jeanneau, Prestige, Riviera and Maritimo models - including the standout M55 and M75.
Marine technology and equipment innovation will also feature strongly. Yamaha Marine New Zealand will present its Helm Master EX wireless control system, allowing low-speed manoeuvring from anywhere onboard, while new Honda outboard engines will be demonstrated on sea trials. Italian manufacturer Frigomar, represented locally by Boatgear, will showcase advanced marine air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, including energy-efficient variable-speed inverter technology designed to deliver quieter operation, lower power consumption and flexible installation for vessels of all sizes.
With around 150 exhibitors and more than 200 boats on display on land and water, including 30 boats available to sea trial, the Auckland Boat Show offers visitors a comprehensive look at the latest boats, equipment and marine innovation not only in New Zealand, but in the world.
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.
www.aucklandboatshow.co.nz
.
Tickets are on sale now.