SailGP returns to Auckland for 2026 - What Kiwi boaties need to know
Valentine's weekend 2026 is bringing world-class sailing back to Waitematā Harbour. The ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix returns on February 14-15, and this year it's bigger than ever.
After a record-breaking debut in 2025 that drew over 25,000 spectators, Auckland has locked in its spot as a highlight of the global SailGP calendar. Here's what's new for 2026 and how boaties can be part of the action.
The racing
SailGP is basically Formula One on water, and it's spectacular. F50 foiling catamarans hit speeds over 100 kilometres per hour in short, intense races close enough to shore to see every manoeuvre. These aren't your typical yacht races. The boats fly above the water on hydrofoils, making tight turns in a compact racecourse built for spectators.
New Zealand's Black Foils, with Peter Burling and Blair Tuke at the helm, will face teams from Australia, Great Britain, Spain, and more. Auckland is the second stop on the 2026 championship, between Perth and Sydney, in the Oceania leg.
Last year, Australia claimed the title while the Black Foils finished fourth, hampered by equipment issues. Expect the home team to come out swinging this time.
What's new for 2026
Auckland's Race Stadium at Wynyard Quarter is getting a major upgrade. The grandstand will be 30% larger than last year's setup, creating an even more intense atmosphere.
Racing runs from 4:00pm to 5:30pm on both days, with gates opening at 1:30pm. The waterfront comes alive with food vendors, entertainment, and festival vibes. Tickets range from $110 for grandstand seats to $350 for premium packages. Free big screen viewing is available at Eastern Viaduct.
Viewing from your boat
Being on the water for SailGP puts you right in the action. The official Bring Your Own Boat (BYOB) programme sold out quickly for 2026, which gives you an idea of how popular this viewing option is. BYOB flag holders get access to a designated area within the exclusion zone, with live FM radio commentary putting you at the centre of the racing.
If you missed out on BYOB access this year, you can still watch from outside the exclusion zone. The zone is marked by large orange or yellow buoys and is active from 2:30pm to 7:00pm both days. Position yourself outside these markers, and you'll still get fantastic views of the F50s flying past at full speed. The course runs near Wynyard Quarter on the inner harbour, with the exact layout set each day based on conditions.
Arrive early to claim your spot, bring plenty of patience for the crowd, and you'll have a front row seat to some of the most exciting sailing in the world.
Practical considerations
Valentine's weekend will be busy on the harbour with spectator boats, ferries, and race support vessels all sharing the water. Standard Maritime NZ safety gear and communication equipment apply. Check your weather forecast, respect the exclusion zone boundaries, and give yourself extra time if you're heading out that weekend.
For those not planning to watch, early morning or late afternoon harbour movements will help you avoid the peak spectator traffic around race times.
Make it a weekend
SailGP reminds you why Auckland is called the City of Sails. Whether you're watching from your boat, the grandstand, or a harbourside venue, you'll see world-class athletes pushing the limits under sail.
The Black Foils have unfinished business after last year's fourth-place finish. With home crowds behind them and a year of T-Foil experience, this could be their weekend to dominate.
Check the SailGP Auckland website for updates. And if you're heading out on the water, make sure your boat insurance is current.