Auckland Wooden Boat Festival

From 13–15 March 2026, the Viaduct Events Centre and Jellicoe Harbour will once again become a sea of wooden boats and a true celebration of Auckland’s maritime history. This event is free to attend.

Date Te rā me te wā

13 - 15 Mar, 2026

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Location Te wāhi

Viaduct Events Centre | Jellicoe Harbour | New Zealand Maritime Museum | Percy Vos Heritage Boat Shed
More info He pārongo atu anō
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Words by Discover Auckland
Last updated 16 Feb 2026

This festival brings together the craftsmanship, heritage, and community spirit of Aotearoa New Zealand’s classic boats, with activities for all ages. Spread across four iconic waterfront venues including the Viaduct Events Centre, Jellicoe Harbour, the New Zealand Maritime Museum, and the Percy Vos Heritage Boat Shed, it’s a weekend not to be missed. And the best part? It's free!

Image credit: Suellen Hurling / Live Sail Die

Location Te wāhi

Viaduct Events Centre | Jellicoe Harbour | New Zealand Maritime Museum | Percy Vos Heritage Boat Shed

Plan your route

Getting there Te huarahi ki reira

The festival is located a 5-10 minute walk away from the downtown ferry terminal, Waitematā Train Station & bus terminal.

See and Do

There’s something for everyone at the Auckland Wooden Boat Festival. From sail making, boat building and star compass navigation to live demonstrations of waka carving and traditional craftsmanship, the festival brings maritime heritage to life.

Visitors can explore indigenous Pacific craft, beautifully built clinker and wooden sailing dinghies, boat models, steam and mechanical engines, while enjoying music and a curated festival of films and speakers at the New Zealand Maritime Museum.

With hands-on activities for kids, knot-tying know-how, nautical books and historic silver trophies on display, it’s an immersive waterfront experience designed to be explored at your own pace.

On Water Activities

From boat rides to sailing experiences, we have dinghies, steam boats and coastal rowing boats on standby to give you a taste of sailing and boating. You’ll even have the opportunity to travel between the New Zealand Maritime Museum and the Festival site on the steamboat SS PUKE.

Around the Area

Set on Auckland’s vibrant waterfront, the Auckland Wooden Boat Festival is surrounded by some of the city’s best places to explore. Stroll along Auckland’s waterfront and Westhaven Marina, where classic wooden boats sit alongside modern yachts, or wander through Wynyard Quarter’s harbourside parks, paths and dining spots.

Just a short walk away, Heritage Landing and the New Zealand Maritime Museum offer a deeper dive into Auckland’s maritime heritage, while nearby Commercial Bay adds premium shopping, dining and harbour views in the heart of the city. With flat, scenic walkways connecting it all, the area is easy to explore on foot. Ferries from the Downtown Terminal also make it simple to visit Waiheke Island, Devonport, Rangitoto and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Discover islands here.

Nearby Restaurants

There’s no better time to immerse yourself in the best eateries and bars around the Viaduct Harbour. Read the guide for all for where to drink and eat- plus a few standout spots in neighbouring Wynyard Quarter—all just steps away from the festival action.

Getting Around

Whether you prefer to walk, bus, ferry, or drive, exploring the festival is effortless and scenic. The festival locations: Viaduct Events Centre, Jellicoe Harbour, the New Zealand Maritime Museum, and Percy Vos Shed—are within easy walking distance of each other along Auckland’s beautiful waterfront.

Where to Stay

Staying downtown in Auckland is the perfect way to experience the festival while enjoying the vibrant city and its urban offerings. There is no shortage of options for any budget and preference.