The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, which returns to Auckland Showgrounds from 14–17 May, marks a milestone, as the country’s longest‑running boat show celebrates 70 years.
Since its earliest days, the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show has evolved alongside the country’s boating and fishing culture. In 2026, that legacy is front and centre, with special activations and a programme designed to honour the past while showcasing the very latest in marine innovation. With more than 40 new companies on board, emerging technology and fresh industry releases, the show has cemented itself as New Zealand’s largest marketplace for boating and fishing.
Alongside the anniversary celebrations, visitors can expect a host of new features at this year’s show. Families are firmly in focus, with new kids’ and women’s fishing workshops hosted by Nicky Wilson, designed to introduce beginners to fishing skills in a fun, inclusive, hands‑on environment.
The New SnapCatch Fishing Competition will run for six weeks prior to the show, with prizegiving to take place at the show on Saturday 16 May. The prize pool is valued at over $15,000 and anyone across the motu is welcome to compete. Eight species can be entered into the competition.
The hugely popular Shimano Masterclasses return in 2026, once again offering anglers the chance to learn directly from some of the country’s most respected professionals. Confirmed Shimano Pro Staff include Matt Watson, Chad Prentice and Dan Govier, with sessions covering big-game fishing, surfcasting and snapper tactics.
There will also be free kids’ entertainment including bumper boats, a rodeo shark and a giant inflatable pirate ship, and an expanded Kai Collective food and beverage zone.
The hugely popular Shimano Masterclasses return in 2026, once again offering anglers the chance to learn directly from some of the country’s most respected professionals. Confirmed Shimano Pro Staff include Matt Watson, Chad Prentice and Dan Govier, with engaging sessions covering big game fishing, surfcasting and snapper tactics.
Education remains a core pillar of the show. The Safety and Education Seminars return with updated content, including Coastguard bar‑crossing sessions, VHF communications, lifejacket and EPIRB safety, and immersive experiences for kids through the Blake NZ VR underwater programme. The Hutchwilco Pool will again host demonstrations focused on safety, drowning prevention and practical on‑water skills.
To celebrate the 70th anniversary, organisers have announced the largest grand prize ever offered at the show: a Surtees/Yamaha prize package valued at over $380,000. The boat is fully loaded, featuring Garmin electronics, bow thruster with Helm Master integration, Zipwake trim control, premium lighting, sound system, custom wrap and a tandem axle trailer from The Trailer Shop. Shimano has contributed an impressive $10,000 rod and reel package, while Hutchwilco and O’Brien Water Sports have teamed up on a $4000 watersports bundle.
Attendees will also have the chance to win one of four Viking kayaks, with daily giveaways on all four days of the show.
From heritage displays to cutting‑edge innovation, the 2026 Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show will be a celebration of everything that has made the event an institution for seven decades, while firmly looking ahead to the future of boating and fishing in Aotearoa.
boatshow.co.nz
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