The 2025 Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, held from May 15–18 at Auckland Showgrounds reaffirmed its status as the premier event in the country’s marine calendar. Drawing over 32,000 attendees, the show featured 209 exhibitors, including seven international brands, offering a comprehensive snapshot of New Zealand’s marine industry.
The exhibition showcased 257 boats, 350 engines, and 137 trailers, representing 55 boat brands. This diverse range highlighted the industry’s commitment to catering to various segments, from luxurious cruisers to family-oriented boats, it was a true celebration of Kiwi boating culture.
A significant highlight was Yamaha’s introduction of the world’s first hydrogen- powered prototype outboard to the New Zealand market. This debut underscores Yamaha’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2035 and offered a glimpse into the future of marine engineering.
The Shimano Masterclass Series, led by Matt Watson and a team of expert Shimano pro staffers, provided attendees with valuable insights into fishing techniques.
Sessions covered topics such as tuna targeting, surfcasting strategies, and interpreting marine electronics, reflecting the show’s emphasis on knowledge sharing and inspiring both experienced and amateur anglers.
One showgoer remarked, “The show does a great job of backing the industry and encouraging more Kiwis to get out on the water. Seeing so many young people getting excited about boating and fishing was a real highlight.”
The inaugural ‘Two Hooked’ competition added a dynamic element to the event.
Fishing pairs competed in skill-based challenges, fostering community engagement and celebrating the passion and competitiveness of Kiwi fishing aficionados.
Lifestyle zones added extra depth to the show, with the new Fishing, Dive & Travel area and the Generate KiwiSaver Hub drawing interest beyond the water. The Trailer Hub and Hutchwilco Pool kept the spotlight on safety, while family-friendly additions like the pirate ship, bumper boats, and Friday night’s George FM DJ enhanced the show’s interactive and entertainment offerings.
“This was the best boat show yet,” said one visitor – a sentiment echoed by many others. Culminating the event was the draw for the largest prize in the show’s history: a Surtees 770 Game Fisher powered by a Yamaha F350 4.3L V6, equipped with Garmin electronics and an Alloy-Tech trailer. Valued at over $360,000, the prize was awarded to Cambridge nurse Chloe Earl, who received the call announcing her win on her birthday, marking a memorable conclusion to the show. Living up to its reputation, the 2025 Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show provided an exceptional experience for fishing and boating enthusiasts, highlighting the best in marine and boating innovations.
