The Whangārei Maritime Festival is back for its third year, and it’s quickly becoming one of New Zealand’s standout regional events. After welcoming over 20,000 attendees in 2024, the festival has firmly established itself as a favourite on Northland’s events calendar, bringing life, learning, and celebration to the Whangārei Town Basin.
What began as a celebration of our city’s maritime identity has grown into a weekend-long showcase of ocean knowledge, skills, trades, and storytelling — all set against the stunning backdrop of Whangārei’s Town Basin. With a renewed focus on education and inspiration, the 2025 festival will offer hands-on maritime displays, interactive learning experiences, and insights into the world of marine-based careers and trades.
Of course, returning favourites will be making a splash again — including the vibrant Kids’ Zone, live music on the waterfront, and maritime talks designed to inform and ignite curiosity. “This year we’ve gone back to the heart of why we started,” the organisers said. The festival is still a celebration, but it’s also about showcasing the marine trades, sharing skills, and highlighting the career pathways that exist right here in our region.”
The Whangārei Maritime Festival would not be possible without the generous support of businesses and organisations who believe in the festival’s long-term vision. They gratefully acknowledge their valued sponsors:
Whangarei Marina, Hundertwasser Art Centre, Vital Signs, Sub Zero Brand and Design Transpower and Omexom North Chamber.
Event Details:
- October 11th and 12th 2025
- Whangārei Town Basin
- Free Entry
