Boating NZ November 2025

A bill designating 19 new marine protected areas for Hauraki Gulf Marine Park has been passed, with the new regulations slated to come into effect “before the end of 2025.” Comprising extensions to two existing marine reserves (Cathedral Cove and Cape Rodney/Goat Island), 12 high-protection areas, and five large seafloor protection areas, the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Act is New Zealand’s most significant increase in marine protection in over a decade, and it will have a considerable impact on recreational fishers, divers, and boaters in the region. No fishing whatsoever is allowed in high-protection areas, including for lobsters and shellfish, except for the customary practices of tangata whenua. Strangely, some limited commercial ring-netting is still permitted. Go figure. Line fishing, spear fishing, and diving for seafood are allowed in…

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…

New Zealand’s oldest sporting event, the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta, returns on Monday, 26 January, 2026, with a diverse line-up of fleets and exciting new additions. The regatta will feature keelboats, dinghies, foiling craft, classic yachts, heritage launches, working tugboats, and paddle craft racing on the Waitematā Harbour and Hauraki Gulf. Highlights include the new ‘Sail Past’ Parade from the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron to North Head and the inaugural Regatta After-Party for crews, families, and supporters at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron with live music from the Royal New Zealand Navy Band. This event celebrates Auckland’s maritime culture with races open to everything from cutting-edge foiling skiffs to century-old classics. www.regatta.org.nz The regatta will feature dinghies, foiling craft, classic yachts, working tugboats and paddle craft.…

Moana Auckland, New Zealand’s Ocean Festival, returns for its third edition from 28 February to 15 March 2026. This ocean-inspired celebration will take place over three weekends on Auckland’s waterfront, featuring a refreshed programme that captures the spirit of summer, the power of the ocean, and the cultural heartbeat of Tāmaki Makaurau. The festival is expected to attract around 100,000 people, supporting local businesses and boosting regional GDP by an estimated $4.5 million. Moana Auckland is an Auckland Council Event, delivered by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU). Mayor Wayne Brown and Nick Hill, CE of TAU, highlight the festival’s appeal and its role in extending the summer season and reinforcing Auckland as a prime summer destination. Anchor events include: Seafood & Summer Weekend (28 February – 1 March); The Z Manu…

As National Safe Boating Week (6-12 October) begins, Century Batteries urges New Zealanders to prioritize water safety, starting with the often-overlooked boat battery. With boating on the rise, flat or faulty batteries are a leading cause of marine rescues. Last summer, Coastguard volunteers responded to 1,232 incidents, many due to battery issues. Shaun O’Brien, General Manager-Automotive at Century Batteries, emphasises that many of these incidents can be prevented with basic checks and understanding the demands on marine batteries. Properly maintained marine-specific batteries are essential for both performance and safety. With personal watercraft registrations up 30% in five years, preparation is crucial. Century Batteries ambassador Adam Clancey highlights the importance of pre-launch checks to ensure a worry-free day on the water. CENTURY BATTERIES OFFERS THESE TOP BATTERY SAFETY TIPS: • Ensure…

A significant New Zealand study involving nearly 1,900 anglers, the largest of its kind globally, has shown that fishing can significantly boost wellbeing and mental health. Published in the international journal Leisure Sciences, the study found that active anglers were 52% less likely to report psychological distress or thoughts of self-harm. The research, led by Fish & Game New Zealand in collaboration with Dr Shyamala Nada-Raja from the University of Otago and independent researcher Paul Garbett, used validated clinical assessment tools to demonstrate these findings. Additionally, active anglers were 46% less likely to experience moderate-to-severe anxiety. The study highlights the mental health value of fishing, with Fish & Game New Zealand Chief Operating Officer Richie Cosgrove noting the scale and rigour of the findings. The research also identified specific elements…