September’s Auckland On Water Boat Show perfect for boating fans

by Marine on 23 Aug 2012 The late September running of the Auckland On Water Boat Show offers a perfect lead-in to summer boating activities for boating enthusiasts of all persuasions.

Formerly called the Auckland International Boat Show, the rebranded event takes place on and around Auckland’s spectacular Viaduct Harbour from Thursday 27 September to Sunday 30 September.

The popular and long-running annual event again makes use of the world-class facilities of the Viaduct Harbour which are just a few minutes walk from Auckland’s CBD, says NZ Marine events manager Michelle Khan.

'Boats of all sizes will be berthed alongside the Viaduct Events Centre, easily accessed via a number of ramps from the wharf upon which a huge range of boats will be displayed,' says Ms Khan.

'Inside, the sold-out Viaduct Events Centre and the adjoining three pavilions will features around 200 marine-oriented businesses with the latest and best products and services for sailors, fishermen, kayakers, launch owners, and paddle-boarders.'

Well over 100 vessels will be on show for keen boaties to review at this year’s show, including many new models from manufacturers such as Tristram Marine, the Hamilton-based designer and manufacturer of high-quality trailer boats. The 6.4 metre 641 Offshore is making its show debut at the Auckland On Water Boat Show and is described by Tristram Marine’s managing director Lance Fink as a family-friendly option for those who are keen for some serious sports fishing.

Tristram Marine joins other leading trailer boat manufacturers Rayglass, Smuggler, Fyran and McLay at the show, alongside a great array of craft from the stables of Stabicraft, Buccaneer and dealers Family Boats, from East Tamaki, Auckland, and Whangaparaoa-based Gulfland Marine.

Roger’s Boatshop, from Albany, will feature both trailer boats and larger craft including the new-to-New Zealand 11.4 metre Beneteau Swift Trawler and 8.8 metre Beneteau Antares 8.8 powerboat, which is described by European reviewers as 'what a comfortable and safe 9 metre cruising boat should be'.

Khan notes: 'Of course, all these great boats need power and there are plenty of options with outboard engines large and small from Mercury Marine, Suzuki, Volpower and Yamaha as well as inboard diesels from leading manufacturers such as Scania, Yanmar, Transdiesel and John Deere.

'This year show visitors will see a stronger emphasis on fishing which is clearly one of New Zealand’s most popular on-water activities. Leading bait and tackle retailer Top Catch is at the show for the first time this year and will feature a great selection of sharply priced leading brand rod, reel and bait specials. Stelth Lures is bringing a new range of fishing lures and you can find out more about Furuno touch screen ‘fish finders’ from the experts at Electronic Navigation Ltd during the Boating NZ seminar series which runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday on the second floor of the Viaduct Events Centre.

'Add in the traditional, high quality line-up of wet weather gear, specialised lighting, anchors, solar and other marine power solutions, and it’s clear that the Auckland On Water Boat Show is the perfect venue to find everything you need for a brilliant summer of on water action. Meet the people behind the product and get the best advice before you buy, to get the best out of your boating experience this summer.'

The Auckland On Water Boat Show opens at 10 am on all four days, 27 to 30 September, and closes at 6 pm Thursday through to Saturday and 5 pm on Sunday. Tickets are currently available at a special online price of $18 for an adult day pass from iTicket. Tickets are also available at the gate with an adult day pass $20 or buy a four day pass for $30.

See www.auckland-boatshow.com for details about the show and numerous exciting competitions or find Auckland On Water Boat Show on Facebook (www.facebook.com/OnWaterBoatShow