The 186-year-old Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta is reintroducing racing keelboats to the event’s iconic Harbour Race in 2026 with a revamped format designed to enhance accessibility, competitiveness, and appeal for modern keelboat fleets.
In recent years, strong entries in the tugboat race and classic launch race have drawn attention in the inner Waitematā, whilst the modern keelboat fleet has dwindled, leaving a conspicuous absence in the on-water spectacle traditionally associated with the Auckland Anniversary Day.
Regatta Chair, Bill Lomas, indicated that the changes are aimed at reigniting interest in keelboat participation. “The Harbour Race has always been one of the defining events of the regatta, and we’d love to see modern keelboats back in force. We really hope the changes we’ve made this year will make it easier and more enjoyable for sailing crews to get involved,” he stated.
Key changes to encourage keelboat participation include:
- Simplified two-division structure: The previous three-division system has been consolidated into two divisions: Division 1 for boats over 9.5m and Division 2 for those up to 9.5m, expected to encourage larger fleets and intensify competition.
- More accessible course and start time: A later start time of 1300hrs affords crews ample opportunity to arrive from marinas outside the city centre. The start area has been relocated to Orakei, providing convenience for boats coming from the eastern city suburbs. The course, needing to be achievable and spectator-friendly, will span approximately 12 nautical miles around the inner Waitematā with the finish line positioned at Westhaven to facilitate after-race celebrations.
- New Official After Party at RNZYS: An exciting addition for 2026 is the Official After Party hosted at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron immediately post-racing. Competitors and supporters will enjoy both indoor and outdoor function venues, with live entertainment from the Royal New Zealand Navy Band.
These adjustments aim to remove barriers to participation and entice more keelboat crews back to the Harbour Race, rejuvenating the vibrant spectacle that defines the Auckland Anniversary Day. Keelboat owners, clubs, and crews are encouraged to register early, rally their fleets, and contribute to restoring the Harbour Race to its former glory. Entries for the 2026 Auckland Anniversary Regatta are now open at regatta.org.nz.
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