The Ocean Race will return to Auckland in 2027, with the iconic Viaduct Harbour set to host the Southern Ocean stopover in February and March. This marks the race’s first return to New Zealand since 2018, and the 11th time the city has welcomed the fleet.
During a media launch at Viaduct Harbour, the local stopover team unveiled a special 50th anniversary logo to commemorate the historic connection between Auckland and the race, alongside key partnerships and event details.
The fleet is expected to arrive around 20/21 February 2027, after completing the longest opening leg in the race’s history, covering over 14,000 nautical miles from Alicante, Spain, through the Atlantic, around Cape Horn, and across the Southern Ocean. A Coastal Race in Auckland’s waters is scheduled for 6 March, with Pro-Am racing on 11 March, before the fleet departs for the next leg on 14 March.
Richard Brisius, Race Chairman, reflected on the deep-rooted history between Auckland and The Ocean Race. He highlighted the bond that has developed over five decades since the Whitbread fleet first raced through the Southern Ocean, expressing excitement for the next chapter of this relationship.
The 2027 edition will also be significant as it will feature the entire fleet competing in foiling IMOCA boats, which are 60-foot high-performance monohulls capable of speeds exceeding 30 knots. This addition will bring a new level of speed and spectacle to the race.
The Auckland stopover will include The Ocean Live Park, a free, open-access waterfront precinct running from 20 February to 14 March, allowing fans unprecedented access to the teams, technology, and the stories of life at sea.
The New Zealand Government is supporting the event through the Major Events Fund. Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston expressed pride in backing The Ocean Race, highlighting its potential for international profile and economic activity.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown welcomed the fleet’s return, noting the event’s significance to the city’s identity as the City of Sails and its potential benefits for the local economy and community.
The Ocean Race has partnered with the Sir Peter Blake Trust (BLAKE) as the official charity partner, supporting environmental initiatives and inspiring young ocean guardians in line with Blake’s legacy of ocean advocacy.
In a related initiative, a new three-part documentary series titled ‘Hell or High Water’ will be produced in collaboration with SKY New Zealand, tracing the history of The Ocean Race and the legacy of Sir Peter Blake.
William Thomas, Managing Director of 18k Sports, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and the opportunity to connect fans with the race and celebrate New Zealand’s proud legacy in The Ocean Race.
For further updates, follow The Ocean Race on social media and stay tuned for more details as the event approaches.
For more on The Ocean Race, visit our website: www.theoceanrace.com
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