Come and see history in the making on Anniversary Day

There’s so much to see all around the City of Sails on Anniversary Day. Watch the racing from a viewpoint on land, or get up close with the action by booking a cruise or taking your own boat out to watch the races on the water. Here are some of the highlights not to be missed…

Tugboat Race & Display

10am at Westhaven

Tugboats may not be designed to race, but when they do, they are a spectacular sight. The tugboats will start their race at 10am off Westhaven, racing down to Orakei and back again. And stick around because when they return you’ll see them perform a display of firefighting, dancing, pushing and pulling tug-o-wars.

Classic Launches & Yachts

11am at Westhaven

Auckland has the biggest fleet of authentically restored classics still sailing anywhere in the world, and many of them will be racing this Anniversary Day. See history in the making from Auckland’s waterfront, with the Classic Races starting off Westhaven from 11am.

Dragon Boats & Waka Ama

From 9am – Viaduct Harbour & Westhaven

Paddle craft will be out in force at the regatta too, with Dragon Boat teams racing all day in the Viaduct Harbour, while Waka Ama paddlers will take to the Waitemata to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their participation in the Auckland Anniversary Regatta.

Radio Controlled Yachts

From 10am – Westhaven & St Mary’s Bay

Incredibly dextrous for their miniature size, radio controlled yachts are fascinating for all ages to watch. Competitors regularly include America’s Cup and top level sailors, as well as weekend warriors. Head downtown and watch the RC yacht races at Westhaven and St Mary’s Bay.

Dinghy & Foiling Fleets

Venues and times vary – see the Schedule

The centreboard classes are the grass roots heroes of New Zealand sailing, and hundreds of dinghy sailors will take to the water to compete on Anniversary Day. Racing takes place at clubs around Auckland. Check out the Schedule to see where your favourites are racing.