Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta returns for 2026

Mark your calendars for Monday, 26 January 2026, when New Zealand's oldest sporting event takes over the Waitematā Harbour for its 186th edition. The Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta isn't just another race on the summer calendar; it's the world's biggest one-day regatta and Auckland's birthday celebration rolled into one spectacular day on the water.

A living piece of maritime history

Established in 1840, the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta predates the America's Cup by 11 years. What makes this event truly special is its incredible diversity. You'll see everything from century-old classic yachts and heritage steam launches sharing the water with modern foiling craft, competitive keelboats, and nimble dinghies.

The fleet includes working tugboats in their legendary showdown, dragon boats and waka ama crews powering through under paddle, and even radio-controlled yachts racing in the marina. It's the kind of spectacle that only happens once a year, where Auckland's entire maritime community comes together.

What's new for 2026

This year brings fresh energy to the historic event. At midday, a spectacular Sail Past parade will see yachts, launches, and tugboats process from the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron to North Head, a living showcase of sail, steam, and paddle power designed to bring Aucklanders back to the waterfront.

For the first time, the regatta introduces an official After Party at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron. After racing wraps up, competitors, crews, families, and supporters can gather for live music from the Royal New Zealand Navy Band - New Zealand's only full-time professional military band.

"We know today's crews appreciate somewhere to land after a day on the water," according to a recent regatta announcement. "The new After Party gives competitors a place to share stories, meet other crews, enjoy music and a drink, and feel part of the boating community."

For everyone on the water

Whether you're racing or watching, there's something for everyone. Spectators can enjoy free viewing from prime locations along Westhaven, at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, Tamaki Drive, and the North Shore. Pack a picnic, grab a coffee, or take your own boat out to watch the action up close.

For competitors, the stakes are real. Over $10,000 in prize money is up for grabs, along with the chance to get your name engraved on historic trophies dating back to the 1800s, many permanently displayed at the New Zealand Maritime Museum. All entrants also go in the draw to win a Hawaiian holiday for two, thanks to long-time event partner Hawaiian Airlines.

Entries are now open at regatta.org.nz, covering everything from keelboat and passage races to dinghy divisions coordinated through host clubs. Youth sailors aged 16-18 can also enter for a chance to win a 10-day voyage on the Spirit of New Zealand.

If you're planning to compete, now's the perfect time to make sure your boat is race-ready. Check out our pre-summer boating checklist to ensure your vessel is in top shape for the big day.

Whether you're competing or spectating, the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta is the perfect way to kick off the year on the water. It's 186 years of tradition meeting fresh energy and it's happening right in Auckland's backyard.