Keelboats – we need you back for Anniversary Day!

Every year, the Auckland Anniversary Regatta proves it’s still one of the most iconic and enduring events on our harbour. Now in its 186th year, the event continues to attract big numbers across almost every division.

• Classic launches? Entries flooding in.
• Tugboats? Always a good turnout and a crowd favourite.
• Dragon boats, waka ama, dinghy fleets, radio-controlled yachts? Buoyant fleets year on year.

Spectators love it. Entrants love it. But we’re missing one crucial piece of the puzzle: keelboats.

Where are all the modern keelers?

In recent years, keelboat numbers have dwindled – and it’s the only part of the regatta that’s not thriving. We know it’s a busy few weeks on the sailing calendar, with Bay of Islands Sailing Week, Mahurangi Regatta, and now the new Kawau Race Week leading directly into Anniversary Day.

But if you’re already making the journey back to Auckland, there are perfect opportunities to join in without adding extra miles.

• Mahurangi to Westhaven Passage Race
• Rakino to Westhaven Passage Race

Both offer a simple “race on your way home” option – and your entry makes a real difference to keeping keelboats strongly represented in this historic event.

Why enter?

Aside from taking part in New Zealand’s oldest sporting event and one of Auckland’s most photographed days on the water, there’s plenty on offer:

• Cash prizes for podium places
• Spot prizes – including a Hawaiian holiday for two
• The chance to lift a truly iconic trophy
• NEW After Party at RNZYS on Regatta Day

We have a significant collection of historic class trophies that can be awarded at the Auckland Anniversary Regatta. Classes include:

Class trophies are waiting

• Young 88s
• Farr 1020s
• Stewart 34s
• Mullet Boats…

Rally your fleet, message your group chats, give your rivals a nudge – let’s get these trophies contested again.

Help us keep the tradition alive

The Anniversary Regatta has survived world wars, pandemics and 186 years of change because generations of sailors kept showing up. Today, we need Auckland’s keelboat community to do the same.

Your entry truly helps keep this regatta alive for the next generation.

Will we see you on the start line?

If you’ve already entered – thank you. If not, we’d love you to join us, even if it’s just on your way back from a busy summer of racing.

See you on the water this Auckland Anniversary Day!