Results and photos from a blustery Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta 2026
After a week of wild weather, Auckland was treated to blustery conditions for the 2026 edition of the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta.
Challenging conditions resulted in reduced fleets for some events, with many competitors choosing to preserve their vessels rather than risk damage in the gusty winds and choppy seas. But those who did venture out were rewarded with fantastic racing and an unforgettable day on the water, with the modern keelboat divisions benefiting from stronger fleet numbers and more competitive racing than in recent years.
If there was one fleet perfectly suited to the conditions, it was the tugboats. Nine vessels came out to contest the Tugboat Race, marking the 20th anniversary of the event’s inclusion in the regatta. Heron Construction fielded four boats, including two dredging barges complete with digger arms and very securely strapped-down portaloos – a sight you’ll probably only ever see at this regatta! Around 100 Heron staff enjoyed a memorable day out on the harbour as part of the celebrations.
The classic launches weren’t far behind with seven entries, and a blistering run by My Girl claimed both line and (provisional) handicap honours, leaving the rest of the fleet trailing in her wake.
Dragon Boat racing delivered record-breaking fleet numbers, including a milestone moment with four visiting China-based teams joining the competition. The international crews raised the bar, taking out several titles, while local teams claimed others, making for a strong and well-balanced set of results and plenty of learning across the fleet.
Huge fleets also gathered at Kohimarama, where Optimist and Starling sailors once again proved it takes more than a bit of wind to scare them off. Around 160 young sailors contested their Auckland Championships alongside the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta racing.
Elsewhere on the harbour, racing took place at Manly Sailing Club, Murray’s Bay Sailing Club and Tamaki Yacht Club, with the Sailability fleets racing at Bayswater. Sea Scouts Cutters, Navy Crowns and Sunbursts enjoyed an Anniversary Day adventure – racing from Narrow Neck to Devonport Beach, beaching their boats for lunch, and racing back again in spirited conditions.
Radio-controlled yacht racing also delivered close competition, with strong turnouts providing plenty of action for passers-by along the waterfront.
Spectators also turned out in force despite the weather, and for the first time witnessed the new Sail Past, followed by an unforgettable flyover from four Warbirds Harvards. Their dramatic loops and smoke trails added to the spectacle as fleets made their way down the harbour, chased by winds exceeding 30 knots at times.
A massive thank you to everyone who took part, and to all of our volunteers on and off the water, to the Auckland Harbourmaster, Auckland Police Maritime Unit, Coastguard New Zealand, Royal New Zealand Navy, The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, and all the host clubs and associations around Auckland. This regatta simply couldn’t happen without you.
And finally, our sincere thanks to the regatta’s sponsors and supporters, whose ongoing backing ensures this extraordinary Auckland tradition continues to thrive.
We look forward to seeing everyone again next year.
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