Make sure you’re racing this Anniversary Weekend

With Kawau Race Week postponed and Mahurangi Regatta cancelled, there’s still time to make sure you’re racing this Anniversary Weekend by entering the Auckland Anniversary Regatta on Monday 26 January.

After a wild week of weather, the forecast for Monday is looking good – a fresh westerly breeze of 10-15 knots, and fine conditions with no rain (finally!)

After 186 years, this Regatta remains one of Auckland’s most loved events – drawing thousands of spectators to the waterfront and putting our maritime spirit front and centre on the city’s birthday. This is your chance to be part of something truly special, and have your name forever inscribed in maritime history when you lift one of the event’s historic trophies – there are 61 to be won, including many class trophies.

Entry deadlines (for yachts, launches and tugboats):

• Standard entries ($40) close at 5.00pm today, Friday
• Late entries ($50) will still be accepted until 5.00pm Saturday

If you’ve been meaning to enter – now is the time.

Why you should enter this year…

We know summer racing calendars are tight, so we’ve made some deliberate changes in 2026 to make it easier – and more rewarding – to be part of the day:

• Simpler, more accessible racing options for yachts
• A new Sail Past at 12.00pm from Westhaven, open to everyone on any vessel – whether you’re racing or not
• A special flyover by the NZ Warbirds Harvards, timed to coincide with the Sail Past – a rare and memorable moment for those on the water and the thousands watching from shore
• New for 2026, a relaxed Regatta After Party at RNZYS, with live music from the Royal New Zealand Navy Band – the place to land after a big day on the harbour
• To make that even easier, a limited number of Westhaven berths are available at a special rate of $25 for boats attending the After Party. Please reply to this email if you’d like to book one.

Be part of something bigger

This isn’t just another race day. It’s a chance to:

• support a tradition that’s been part of Auckland life since 1840
• put on a spectacular show for the city
• help ensure the Regatta is still here for the next generation of sailors, boaties and Aucklanders

If you value this event – please enter now.

Thank you for being part of the harbour community that keeps this Regatta alive.