Boating NZ

By the time this edition goes on sale, most of us will be settling into a well-earned summer break. For those with bigger vessels, that might mean heading away on the boat for a few days, or even weeks, or perhaps preparing for a cruise in the New Year. For those of us without liveaboard vessels, most will take time out to enjoy boating with family and friends during the break. By some measures boating is the most popular recreational activity in New Zealand, which is unsurprising considering the breadth of boating opportunities available to us in this country, whether around our beautiful and diverse coastline or enjoying our magnificent lakes and rivers. As always, we try and reflect this diversity in Boating NZ magazine, and even more so on…

Step onboard Boating New Zealand to share thrilling maritime adventures, improve your knowledge of powerboats and yachts, feel the challenge of offshore voyages and be inspired by DIY projects in garages throughout the country. Plus, see the latest new boats from New Zealand and overseas – all brought to you by our talented pool of writers and photographers. CALL 0508 692628 FREEPHONE CHOOSE THE OPTION FOR YOU $139 for a 1-year subscription Save 23% off retail! (inc $56.40 postage) $270 for a 2-year subscription Save 25% off retail! (inc $112.80 postage) www.boatingnz.co.nz/subscribe/ WATCH BOAT REVIEWS AT WWW.BOATINGNZ.CO.NZ AND ON YOUTUBE…

The 186-year-old Auckland Anniversary Regatta returns on Monday 26 January, continuing its legacy as New Zealand’s oldest sporting event. This year introduces a new twist: an official After Party at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron. For the first time, sailors, powercraft crews, paddlers and dinghy racers can gather post-race for food, drinks and live music from the Royal New Zealand Navy Band – the country’s only full-time professional military band, renowned for its versatility and vibrant performances. Regatta Chair Bill Lomas says the After Party is a modern addition to the historic event: “The Regatta remains an Auckland icon, but today’s crews want somewhere to relax and connect after racing. The After Party offers that – a chance to share stories, meet other teams and enjoy the harbour community.”…

Maritimo has unveiled the S50 Sedan Motor Yacht, a clean-sheet design debuting at the 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. While it bears the S-Series badge, it’s a complete rethink – not a scaled-down M50. The S50 retains Maritimo’s muscular stance but sharpens every line. A lighter hardtop, raked windscreen, and expanded glazing bring more light and airflow. The larger cockpit includes a Euro-style boot with full lazarette access and a 1.3m hydraulic swim platform that moves vertically and horizontally for tight marina pens or tender storage. Below, a sleeker hull profile and revised laminates improve efficiency and seakeeping. Inside, the cockpit and galley share one level, adding 300mm of social space. The galley shifts to port with a return bench, while a starboard pantry offers wine or refrigeration options.…

It’s full steam ahead for the Boating NZ-sponsored NZ Antique & Classic Boatshow on Lake Rotoiti in the Nelson Lakes National Park on March 7 & 8, 2026. Sleek cedar kayaks, jet boats from the 1960s, clunky clinkers, and veteran sailing craft – hours of effort in meticulous restorations will be displayed in the spectacular setting of the alpine lake at St Arnaud village. Billed as a weekend of ‘Glorious Hydromatic Relaxation,’ there will be displays on land from early morning and races on the lake in the afternoon on both days. www.nzclassicboats.com…

Emirates Great Britain clinched the 2025 SailGP season after the Grand Final race in Abu Dhabi, where all three teams led at different stages. Australia’s Bonds Flying Roos started strong, followed by the Black Foils, before the British team seized the lead midway and held on. Earlier, Denmark’s Rockwool Racing won the Abu Dhabi event, but Emirates Great Britain topped the Rolex SailGP Championship overall. Despite the outcome, Black Foils Co-CEO and Driver Peter Burling praised his team’s efforts and vowed to build on this season. The 2026 season kicks off with the inaugural Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix in Fremantle on 17–18 January, followed by the ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix in Auckland on 14–15 February, giving the Black Foils a home race. See the Boating NZ website…