Electrification and hybrid propulsion
What electrification and hybrid propulsion means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show is back in 2027, offering an extensive display of the latest boats, engines, electronics, and accessories. Attendees can enhance their fishing skills through workshops and masterclasses led by industry experts.
This event is perfect for seasoned boaters and newcomers alike, providing a family-friendly atmosphere with activities for all ages. The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show takes place in Auckland, New Zealand.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show runs from 13-16 May 2027 at Auckland Showgrounds, New Zealand.
- 2Scale and Focus: This is New Zealand's largest and longest-running boat show, showcasing a wide range of boats, engines, and fishing gear.
- 3Organiser: The event is organised by XPO, known for delivering high-quality exhibitions.
- 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include boating enthusiasts, fishing professionals, and families interested in marine activities.
- 5Entry: Tickets are available for purchase online, with various workshops and masterclasses scheduled throughout the event.
Why visit
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore New Zealand's largest selection of boats and fishing products, attend informative workshops, and meet industry experts. Attendees include boating enthusiasts, fishing professionals, and families interested in marine activities.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors gain access to a large audience of boating enthusiasts and potential buyers, showcasing their products in a vibrant environment. The event provides excellent networking opportunities and the chance to launch new products. Meet qualified buyers and partners including Boat manufacturers showcasing new models, Fishing gear suppliers presenting the latest technology, Marine service providers offering maintenance solutions. Position your offer across fishing boats.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Trailer-boat buyers comparing 5-7 m aluminium fishing rigs from New Zealand builders
Families and first-time buyers evaluating entry-level fibreglass runabouts, inflatables, and kayaks
Experienced game fishermen sourcing tackle, downriggers, and blue-water electronics
Yacht and cruiser owners upgrading chartplotters, refrigeration, and on-board systems
DIY boat owners looking for antifouling, maintenance products, and trailer hardware
Marine trade buyers from dealerships and chandleries reviewing new model lines
Fishing club members and tournament anglers planning the next season
Visitors interested in small craft, paddle sports, and towable boats for weekend use
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
New Zealand aluminium boat builders displaying trailer boats, hardtops, and fishing platforms
Fibreglass boat manufacturers and importers showing cruisers, sportfishers, and runabouts
Outboard and inboard engine distributors with repower and service packages
Marine electronics brands demonstrating chartplotters, sounders, autopilots, and communications
Fishing tackle wholesalers and retailers with rods, reels, lures, and game-fishing gear
Safety equipment suppliers for lifejackets, EPIRBs, flares, and fire suppression
Trailer, towing, and launch-gear manufacturers serving ramp-launched boats
Marina, pontoon, and boat-storage service providers
Boat maintenance, antifouling, and detailing specialists
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Aluminium trailer boats and fishing rigs
Fibreglass cruisers, sportfishers, and runabouts
RIBs, inflatables, and tender craft
Outboard and inboard engines, propellers, and repower packages
Marine electronics: chartplotters, sounders, autopilots, and communications
Trailers, tow bars, winches, and launch equipment
Safety gear: lifejackets, EPIRBs, flares, and fire suppression
Fishing tackle, rods, reels, lures, and game-fishing accessories
Docks, pontoons, marina equipment, and boat storage
Antifouling, paints, cleaning products, and boat maintenance services
Location & Facilities
Venue
Auckland Showgrounds
Auckland, New Zealand
Facilities
Parking
Auckland Showgrounds in Auckland typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Auckland Showgrounds in Auckland typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Auckland Showgrounds for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Auckland, New Zealand
Why it matters
On 2027-05-13 to 2027-05-16, The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show in Auckland covering Fishing boats and accessories, Luxury yachts and cruisers, Marine electronics and navigation tools, Safety equipment and gives marine buyers a single calendar window to compare suppliers, validate specs on the stand, and book follow-ups before the next buying cycle - especially when your roadmap matches the published exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Connected helm and telematics
What connected helm and telematics means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Sustainable materials and refit
What sustainable materials and refit means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Experience-led watersports demand
What experience-led watersports demand means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Supply-chain regionalisation
What supply-chain regionalisation means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Main international gateway for Auckland; public transport connections to the city are covered on the airport public-transport page
TBA
to venue
Approx. 25-40 min to Auckland Showgrounds; confirm live traffic
by car
Domestic terminal sits in the same Auckland Airport precinct; distance to Auckland Showgrounds (ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane) is listed as roughly 16 km
TBA
to venue
Approx. 25-40 min to Auckland Showgrounds, shared airport precinct with the international terminal
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Novotel Auckland Ellerslie
4-star
Ellerslie1.6 km from Auckland Showgrounds to venueUSD 150–190 / night
Breakfast (paid), free Wi-Fi, parking (paid), air conditioning, fitness center, bar, restaurant, room service
Parklane Motor Lodge
4-star
Ellerslie450 m from Auckland Showgrounds to venueUSD 150–190 / night
Breakfast (paid), free Wi-Fi, free parking, outdoor pool, hot tub, air conditioning, restaurant, kitchen in some rooms
ibis Auckland Ellerslie
4-star
Ellerslie1.6 km from Auckland Showgrounds to venueUSD 150–190 / night
Breakfast (paid), free Wi-Fi, parking, air conditioning, fitness center, bar, restaurant, room service
Royal Park Lodge
4-star
EllerslieNear Auckland Showgrounds to venueUSD 150–190 / night
Free Wi-Fi, free parking, air conditioning, breakfast, kitchen in rooms, accessible, kid-friendly
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Bus / train / ferry (Auckland Transport)
Estimated costUSD 2.50-6 single metro/light-rail journey (contactless)
Best forAuckland city and suburbs to Auckland Showgrounds
Auckland Transport maintains a dedicated event-transport page for Auckland Showgrounds; check the AT Journey Planner for your show day. Moovit also lists bus connections serving the venue in One Tree Hill Central.
AT HOP card public transport
Estimated costUSD 35–75 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forGreater Auckland network to Auckland Showgrounds
Auckland public transport uses the AT HOP card across buses, trains and ferries; travel guides recommend loading the card before show days. Use the Journey Planner to plan rail plus bus connections to Greenlane.
Airport to central Auckland
Estimated costApprox. NZD 20-40 taxi/rideshare from AKL to venue (estimate; confirm before travel)
Best forAuckland Airport (AKL) to Auckland Showgrounds
Auckland Airport public transport page covers connections from the terminals toward the city; plan onward travel by bus or rail to Ellerslie/Greenlane for the Showgrounds.
Weather
Auckland sits in a temperate coastal climate; open-meteo air-quality forecast data near the venue shows low US AQI levels (around 53 at the sampled hour), so air quality is generally not a barrier. Check local advisories closer to travel.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Confirm mobile roaming or local SIM options for business visitors to New Zealand.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Maori greeting and business etiquette
A light handshake and a simple 'Kia ora' are appropriate in most business settings. If you are invited onto a marae, wait to be guided on protocol rather than assuming the sequence.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in New Zealand. Restaurant and hotel staff do not expect a 15-20 percent gratuity; rounding up for good service is optional.
Dress and weather
Auckland dress for a boat show is smart-casual. A waterproof shell is useful year-round, and comfortable shoes help when moving between halls, outdoor displays, and car parks.
Business pace
Meetings usually start on time and may include informal discussion before decisions. Bring clear product specifications, NZ compliance information, and follow-up timelines.
Driving and transport
Traffic drives on the left. Allow extra time around Greenlane and Ellerslie during commute hours, and confirm whether your hotel offers parking before driving to the venue.
Weekend show crowds
The Auckland Boat Show draws families and serious buyers, especially on weekends. Exhibitors should plan staffing and lead capture for both casual visitors and decision-makers.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Compare flights to the nearest international gateway serving Auckland; confirm ground transport on the organiser site.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Auckland Airport: Approx. 25-40 min to Auckland Showgrounds; confirm live traffic; Auckland Domestic Airport: Approx. 25-40 min to Auckland Showgrounds, shared airport precinct with the international terminal. Allow road or rail time to Auckland Showgrounds; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Auckland Showgrounds: Ellerslie: Novotel Auckland Ellerslie; Ellerslie: Parklane Motor Lodge; Ellerslie: ibis Auckland Ellerslie.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Auckland; confirm local availability before travel.
Public transit: Auckland Transport's dedicated Auckland Showgrounds event page and Journey Planner cover bus, train and ferry connections to the venue; plan your route in advance because services can change on event days.
Parking: On-site parking is available at Auckland Showgrounds; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: May 2027
Temperature: Auckland has a temperate coastal climate. Expect daytime highs typically around 18-24 C in spring and autumn, and 20-26 C in summer; winter days are cooler, often 11-16 C. The show halls are indoors, but layered clothing is useful for walking between buildings and parking areas.
Seasonality: Rain is possible in any month. Auckland's wetter period is usually June to August, while summer can bring humid, changeable days and brief showers. Pack a light waterproof jacket and check the forecast for your show dates before travelling.
Packing: Auckland sits in a temperate coastal climate; open-meteo air-quality forecast data near the venue shows low US AQI levels (around 53 at the sampled hour), so air quality is generally not a barrier. Check local advisories closer to travel.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
Day 14
Confirm the Auckland Boat Show opening hours, venue access points, and ticket options on boatshow.co.nz; note that Auckland Showgrounds is in Greenlane.
Day 12
Book accommodation in Ellerslie, Greenlane, or central Auckland; compare refundable rates because show weekends can lift demand near the venue.
Day 10
Plan your route to Auckland Showgrounds using the AT Journey Planner, or confirm driving directions and on-site parking details.
Day 9
If flying into Auckland Airport (AKL), check whether you arrive at the international or domestic terminal and allow 25-40 minutes by road to the venue.
Day 7
Review the exhibitor list or show preview and shortlist boat builders, engine brands, and electronics stands you want to visit.
Day 5
Check the Auckland forecast and pack a light waterproof jacket; walking between halls and outdoor display areas can expose you to showers.
Day 4
Charge your phone and save the venue address; download any transit or ride-hailing apps you plan to use.
Day 3
Prepare questions for exhibitors about NZ compliance, warranty coverage, servicing, trailer towing weights, and delivery lead times.
Day 2
Confirm any meeting times with exhibitors and check whether show tickets are mobile or need printing.
Day 1
Arrive early for parking and entry, wear comfortable shoes, and bring a reusable bag for brochures and gear samples.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Auckland Showgrounds
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show registration concourse
Auckland Showgrounds
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Auckland Showgrounds
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$190.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$340.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Fishing boats and accessories and Luxury yachts and cruisers solutions and benchmarking suppliers at The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show in Auckland.
Min. budget
$530.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Fishing boats and accessories and Luxury yachts and cruisers products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,385.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Auckland show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
How do I get to Auckland Showgrounds by public transport?
Auckland Transport publishes an event-transport page for Auckland Showgrounds and a Journey Planner; use them to check bus, train and ferry options for your show day.
Which hotels are closest to Auckland Showgrounds?
Google Hotels lists 138 properties near the venue; Parklane Motor Lodge is roughly 450 m away, and the Novotel and ibis Auckland Ellerslie cluster is about 1.6 km from the gates.
Which airport serves Auckland Showgrounds?
Auckland Airport (AKL) is the city's international gateway; Auckland Airport's public transport page and the airport train transfer page cover onward connections into central Auckland.
Where can I park near Auckland Showgrounds?
Check the Auckland Showgrounds official venue site and neighbouring event transport pages (for example Auckland Home Show and Food Show getting-there pages) for current parking guidance and nearby options.
Glossary
- Trailer boat
- A boat sized and configured to be carried on a road trailer, typically launched at a ramp rather than kept in a marina berth. Common at Auckland Boat Show in aluminium fishing and family configurations.
- RIB
- Rigid inflatable boat: a solid hull with inflatable tubes around the gunwale. Used for tenders, dive support, and sport use.
- Hardtop
- A rigid roof structure over the helm or cabin area of a boat, offering weather protection without a soft-top canopy.
- Game boat
- A vessel set up for blue-water game fishing, with rod holders, outriggers, a fighting chair or harness points, and large fish boxes.
- Chandlery
- A retail store or supplier selling boat hardware, ropes, paints, fittings, and general marine consumables.
- Chartplotter
- A marine display that combines electronic navigation charts with position, route, and sometimes sonar data.
- Transducer
- A sonar sensor mounted through the hull or on the transom that sends and receives sound pulses to show depth and fish signals.
- EPIRB
- Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon: a distress beacon that transmits to rescue authorities when activated at sea.
- Antifouling
- A protective coating applied to a boat hull to reduce the build-up of algae, barnacles, and other marine growth.
- Berth
- A mooring space for a boat in a marina or harbour, usually rented or leased.
- Outboard
- A self-contained engine and propulsion unit mounted on the transom of a boat, common on trailer boats and RIBs.
- Inboard
- An engine installed inside the hull, driving a propeller through a shaft or stern drive.
- Trolling
- Fishing by towing lures or baits behind a slowly moving boat, widely used for game fish such as tuna and marlin.
- NMEA 2000
- A marine electronics network standard that lets engines, displays, autopilots, and sensors share data on a single backbone.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show 2027
- The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show Auckland 2027
- The Hutchwilco New Zealand 2027
- The Hutchwilco New Zealand Auckland 2027
- Auckland New Zealand
- Fishing boats and accessories
- Luxury yachts and cruisers
- Marine electronics and navigation tools
- Safety equipment and life jackets
Trust footer
Sources
3
References
2
Publishers
0
Date checked
1
The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show
- event_website
2
Hutchwilco NZ Boat Show
- event_social
- event_social
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.