Best of the Boat Show
Dive safety and latest technology starred at this year's event
The 2025 Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, held from May 15–18 at Auckland Showgrounds, drew over 32,000 attendees and 209 exhibitors.
The exhibition showcased 257 boats, 350 engines, and 137 trailers, representing 55 boat brands. This diverse range highlighted the industry's commitment to catering to various segments, from luxurious cruisers to family-oriented boats.
Lots of you came to visit us at the Dive Pacific stand, where lots of you signed up for our fortnightly e-newsletter and for the chance to win a 2-day freediver course with FreeDive Aotearoa Dive in Paihia. Les Bull from Whangarei was our lucky winner, and we loved meeting so many of you. Our focus this year was on dive safety, and plenty of you were happy to learn more about the importance of dive flags. Welcome to all our new members!
Other show highlights included Yamaha's introduction of the world's first hydrogen-powered prototype outboard to the New Zealand market, and the Shimano Masterclass Series, led by Matt Watson and a team of expert Shimano pro staffers.
One showgoer remarked, "The show does a great job of backing the industry and encouraging more Kiwis to get out on the water. Seeing so many young people getting excited about boating and fishing was a real highlight.” The Trailer Hub and Hutchwilco Pool kept the spotlight on safety, while family-friendly additions like the pirate ship, bumper boats, and Friday night’s George FM DJ enhanced the show's interactive and entertainment offerings.
Culminating the event was the draw for the largest prize in the show's history: a Surtees 770 Game Fisher powered by a Yamaha F350 4.3L V6, equipped with Garmin electronics and an Alloy-Tech trailer. Valued at over $360,000, the prize was
awarded to Cambridge nurse Chloe Earl, who received the call announcing her win on her birthday, marking a memorable conclusion to the show.
Thanks for coming to see us - let's do it all again next year!