Fresh energy for oldest regatta as Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta returns in 2026

New Zealand’s oldest sporting event – the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta – returns on Monday 26 January 2026, with organisers promising another diverse line-up of fleets and some exciting new additions to reinvigorate the historic event.

The regatta will once again feature keelboats, dinghies, foiling craft and classic yachts, along with heritage launches, working tugboats and paddle craft, racing across a full programme on the Waitematā Harbour and Hauraki Gulf.

Two new features highlight the 2026 edition of this iconic event:

• Vessel Parade – A procession of yachts, launches and tugboats from the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron to North Head will showcase the competing fleet in a spectacular display for onshore spectators.
  
• RNZYS After Party – Racing crews, families and supporters are invited to the Squadron after racing for the regatta’s first official after party, featuring live music from the Royal New Zealand Navy Band.
  

“This event has always been about more than just racing – it’s about celebrating Auckland’s maritime culture,” said Regatta Chairperson, Bill Lomas. “The new vessel parade and after party give sailors and spectators fresh reasons to be part of the occasion.”

With racing open to everything from foiling skiffs to century-old classics, the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta remains one of the most diverse and historic events on the international sailing calendar.