New Zealand's largest on water boat show kicks off next Thursday

by Ellie Brade on 17 Sep 2014 The Viaduct Harbour will play host to nearly 200 exhibiting companies and over 200 boats, at the Auckland On Water Boat Show from the 25 – 28 September.

The Auckland On Water Boat Show has been steadily growing over 16 years and this edition, from the 25 to the 28 September, has added new dimensions to the show, popular with industry and recreational boaters.

In the 25 years since Sir Peter Blake raced Steinlager 2 to become the first (and only) yacht to win all six legs of the Whitbread Round the World race, 'Big Red' has become part of the fabric of our maritime history. Fresh from an extensive refit at Auckland's Yachting Developments, the illustrious yacht will be at the show for viewers to explore this special part of our on-water history for themselves.

When was the last time you saw a Guinness World Record Attempt? The 27th will see one staged in the Vi-aduct Harbour. West Auckland company Lancer Industries has built a twenty metre-long, stand up paddle board, and to raise money for the Child Cancer Foundation, they'll be attempting to have the most people ever on a SUP. 52 people will be paddling down the Viaduct come Saturday, in full view of spectators watching from the Boat Show and surrounding areas.

The show’s famous for its ability to draw exciting new vessels to the Viaduct Harbour. This year, Riviera alone will have $10,500,000 worth of yachts on the water, while Kiwi company, Pachoud, will display its luxury sport cruiser, Voodoo. An outstanding example of a luxury cruiser, Voodoo also sets a blistering pace with a top speed of 40 knots and exceptional fuel efficiency. Bavaria will have their Bavaria 41 and 46 mod-els on display.

BlackDog Cat’s aluminium trailer boats will be whipping show visitors around the harbour for trials, demonstrating their hardiness and easy manoeuvrability. Remember that amphibious craft used to carry the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge up-harbour? Sealegs will also have its amphibious craft on site for visitors to take a spin in. With 100 boats in the marina, there’s plenty to jump onboard and explore. Tris-tram Boats will have their brand new 701 models on display, and an exciting collaboration project froma trio of well known names is also to be revealed.

If you fancy yourself nimble and able to quickly pick up new skills, you might like to head to Aloft Alone, outside Pavilion three and try your hand at climbing the six metre mast solo - with the help of Aloft Alone’s solo mast climbing technology.

If something less energetic is your cup of tea, make your way up to level three of the Viaduct Events Centre where we’ve collected marine experts for a seminar programme on Saturday and Sunday, covering a host of topics. Highlights will be ADOS Addicted to Fishing’s Nicky Sinden’s top tips for catching Kingfish, ENL’s advice on getting the best from your electronics while fishing and the Mooring’s guide to yacht chartering.

The show covers everything from the latest jet skis, to fishing equipment, to accessories for the boat or bach. Don’t miss the chance to talk to marine industry experts before you make your next on-water purchase this coming summer.

All you need to know:

Thursday 25 – Saturday 28 September
Show Hours: Thurs-Sat 10am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour
Tickets from iTicket.co.nz
Single day passes $18 early bird price.

- Two $1000 prizes given away each day to early bird purchasers
- Seven day Tongan charter for two to be won from The Moorings.
- Free seminar programme Saturday and Sunday.