Fully-loaded for 2024.
New Zealand’s largest exhibition organiser, XPO Exhibitions is grabbing the helm and promising a truly revitalised and reinvigorated Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, 16 – 19 May 2024 at the Auckland Showgrounds.
Committed to retaining the cherished historical elements of the show, XPO say they owe it to the industry to look forward, delivering a show that stays true to its colours and culture, yet leaps ahead with the showcasing of new trends and innovation.
Helen Kay, Exhibition Manager, says “that will translate to fresh new features with stacks of new content, and inspiration for our nation of marine enthusiasts, boat lovers, and fishing fanatics.”
Keen anglers in 2024 will be amped to check out the NEW Shimano Fishing Pavilion, featuring cutting-edge fishing technology, and showcasing the NEW Shimano Masterclass Series. A destination where you can enhance your fishing skills with the latest gear, equipment, and of course, expert advice and knowledge to reel in whatever you’re after. New Zealand’s own fishing royalty Matt Watson will be headlining the Shimano Masterclass Series daily.
Once you’ve mastered the art of reeling in your catch, head to the new Kai Collective to seek out the best produce to accompany it. The Kai Collective is set to celebrate all things food with a key focus on kaimoana.
The organisers are listening to survey feedback introducing a stack of NEW nautically themed entertainment for the kids. So head on over to the 20m long and 9m high giant inflatable pirate ship, or see how long you can ride on the NEW rodeo Shark, all brand NEW to the show and brand NEW in New Zealand!
“In place of the awards, XPO is hosting a NEW all-inclusive exhibitor function with entertainment, refreshments, and excellent networking opportunities; and importantly the presentation of the prestigious Hall of Fame Inductee.”
With all these changes afoot, what about the Grand Prize boat giveaway? Never fear! The organisers, together with valued partners are committing to deliver an even more impressive prize boat than 2023! The new “scan to win” technology that debuted at the 2023 event will be back in 2024 with tech upgrades to ensure visitor usability is seamless. Additionally, NEW to the Grand Prize is an ONSITE, live draw at 5pm on Sunday, giving visitors and exhibitors a chance to be at the show to witness the draw, and adding to the hype of the prize.
The $300k+ Surtees/Yamaha Grand Prize boat features a sleek white wrap design on The Surtees 750 Game Fisher Enclosed Hull is expertly crafted for the smoothest ride and versatile fishing adventures. It is equipped with the all-new Yamaha F250 DES V6 Offshore 4.2L engine with the ground breaking Yamaha Helm Master EX boat control system. The boat’s towability is enhanced by the Futura Trailer’s fully anodized aluminium, weld-free design, minimising corrosion risks. Packed with top-notch features from Garmin, Sea dek, Okuma, BLA, Fusion, and more, this prize is the ultimate package for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
With so many new features, the 2024 Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show promises to be a delight. Tickets go on sale from mid-December just in time to make a splash under the Christmas tree and make someone’s year.
