New Zealand’s marine industry is showing clear signs of recovery, with the 25th Auckland Boat Show expanding its footprint to accommodate growing demand from exhibitors as confidence returns to the sector.
Market data shows a turnaround in the final quarter of 2025, driven by new boat sales, commercial vessel construction, a strong second-hand market, and increased demand for refit, maintenance and berthage services. With the exchange rate increasingly favouring New Zealand manufacturers, exports are also strengthening, with around 40% of New Zealand manufactured powerboats now sold offshore.
Reflecting this renewed momentum, the Auckland Boat Show has increased exhibition space by 20% for its 2026 event, creating room for 150 exhibitors and 200 boats both on land and water.
Around 30,000 boats are sold in New Zealand each year, ranging from paddleboards to superyachts, and boating remains the country’s most popular recreational activity, with around 40% of the population taking part.
Auckland Boat Show organiser Stacey Cook says demand from both long-standing and new exhibitors has driven the show’s expansion.
“We’ve seen a lift in confidence across the industry, and that’s flowing directly into exhibitor demand. This year’s show will be bigger, more diverse, and a genuine reflection of an industry that’s moving forward again.”
More space, more boats, more to experience
Boats range from inflatables and trailer boats through to high-end luxury motor yachts and sailing vessels. Many designed and built in New Zealand, alongside leading international brands making their local debut.
Centred on Jellicoe Harbour and the Viaduct Events Centre, the four-day event runs from Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 March 2026 and includes more than 1.3 kilometres of boats on the water.
Responding to the renewed popularity of trailer power boats, the show has expanded its Sea Trial zone, with 32 different model available for on-water demos.
New Zealand craftsmanship and international brands
At the luxury end of the spectrum, a standout new attraction is Kaeā, a 13.8-metre custom vessel deigned by renown New Zealander designer Bill Upfold and built in Tauranga by Marra Marine. North Shore-based Allan Tongs Boatbuilders will showcase the latest Elite AT43, with the tenth vessel from the mould on display and an eleventh currently in build. The 18-metre Elite motor yacht Zaphira, built by Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders, returns after a strong debut last year.
International brands including Maritimo, Riviera and Jeanneau will also feature, with several New Zealand debuts at the show.
“People come to the show to see what’s new, to shop for a boat, and to immerse themselves in the marine world,” says Cook. “You’ll find everything from trailer boats and amphibious craft to sport fishers, custom New Zealand builds and some of the finest luxury yachts available for sale and charter.”
Industry confidence returns
NZ Marine Executive Director Peter Busfield, who organised the first show in 1999, says the past year has marked a turning point for the sector.
“The industry has come through a low point and is now entering steady growth again. We’re hearing consistently from members that sales activity has picked up, people are upgrading, and the second-hand market is strong. It’s not a boom, but it is a clear and encouraging turnaround.”
He says New Zealand’s deep connection to the water continues to underpin the industry’s success.
“Boating is part of our DNA. People from all backgrounds have access to the water, and that creates a discerning domestic market. That knowledge and experience feeds directly into the quality of boats we design and build, and is why they’re increasingly sought after internationally.”
A showcase of innovation and excellence
The first Auckland Boat Show, held in 1999 ahead of the America’s Cup, featured just 42 exhibitors. Today, the event represents more than 500 brands and has become the country’s largest on-water boat show, with dedicated zones for careers, sustainability, fishing, high-end charters and sea trials.
“What’s stayed consistent over 25 years is industry ownership, a focus on excellence, and boats in the water,” says Cook. “That’s what sets this event apart and why it continues to grow.”
New Zealand’s marine industry is estimated to be worth $3 billion, including $800 million in exports. Maritime New Zealand data shows there are around 1.95 million boats in the country, ranging from windsurfers and trailer boats to yachts, launches and commercial vessels.
