Celebrating 70 years hooked on boating and fishing at the 2026 Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show
The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show returns to Auckland Showgrounds from 14–17 May 2026, marking a major milestone as it celebrates 70 years as the country’s longest-running boat show.
The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show returns to Auckland Showgrounds from 14–17 May 2026, marking a major milestone as it celebrates 70 years as the country’s longest-running boat show.
With a strong focus on both heritage and innovation, this year’s event promises to be one of the biggest yet. Whether you’re a seasoned offshore boatie, keen angler or new to life on the water, the show remains the place to explore the latest boats, engines, electronics, trailers and accessories. With over 40 new companies involved, it continues to cement its place as New Zealand’s largest boating and fishing marketplace.
Biggest grand prize in show history
To celebrate the 70th anniversary, organisers have unveiled the largest grand prize ever offered at the show — a Surtees/Yamaha package valued at over $380,000.
The prize includes a Surtees 770 Game Fisher XL powered by a Yamaha F350 V6, complete with Helm Master® DX joystick control. The fully loaded package also features Garmin electronics, Zipwake trim control, premium lighting, sound system, custom wrap and a tandem axle trailer.
Adding further value, Shimano has contributed a $10,000 rod and reel package, while Hutchwilco and O’Brien Water Sports have added a $4,000 watersports bundle, creating a complete turnkey setup.
All registered attendees can enter by scanning their ticket throughout the show, with bonus entries available for tickets purchased online before 11 May.
Daily kayak giveaways and masterclasses
Visitors will also have the chance to win one of four Viking kayaks, with daily draws running across all four days of the show.
The popular Shimano Masterclasses return in 2026, with sessions from well-known names including Matt Watson, Chad Prentice and Dan Govier. Topics will cover big game fishing, surfcasting and snapper tactics, offering practical insights for anglers of all levels.
New features for 2026
This year’s show introduces several new features, including Kids’ and Ladies Fishing Workshops hosted by Nicky Wilson, designed to provide a fun and inclusive introduction to fishing.
The new SnapCatch Fishing Competition will also run in the lead-up to the event, with a prize pool of over $24,000 and multiple species categories. Prizegiving will take place during the show on Saturday 16 May.
A milestone event
From heritage displays to the latest in marine technology, the 2026 Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show celebrates seven decades of boating and fishing in New Zealand, while continuing to look ahead to the future of the industry.
Tickets are on sale now at boatshow.co.nz.
14–17 May 2026, Auckland Showgrounds.
