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2021 Auckland Boat Show cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions

The show, which was scheduled to open on 7 October, has been cancelled due to uncertainty around COVID-19 Alert Levels

Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions that limit people gathering, the 2021 Auckland Boat Show has been cancelled, the organisers announced today (3 September).

“New Zealand’s longest-standing on water-based boat show was scheduled to open on 7 October, but with uncertainty on which restriction levels will be in force at that time, we have made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s show,” says organiser Stacey Cook.

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Last year’s show was also called off due to COVID-19 crowd restriction levels in Auckland.

The build of the show, including a made-for-purpose show marina, was to begin in two weeks’ time. A meeting of exhibitors and organisers held on 2 September via Zoom concluded that, due to uncertainty around changing COVID restriction levels, cancellation was the best course of action.

“With more than 1.4 million New Zealanders going boating every year, boating is a way of life for many, and we know that the boating public will share our disappointment in not being able to see and experience the latest in technology, equipment, and new boat and engine models on offer at the now-cancelled show. However, boaters can visit auckland-boatshow.com to view the latest boats and products from companies that were to exhibit.”

The show will return in early 2022, running from 17 to 20 March, and is set to be a bigger show than planned for 2021. It will have a new layout and more space on land and water, taking advantage of using the space set aside in Jellicoe Harbour, previously the America’s Cup team bases, and next to the site from where Emirates Team New Zealand successfully defended the 36th America’s Cup.

“The New Zealand marine industry has enjoyed steady sales this year, as New Zealanders continue to value and look forward to exploring their own coastlines and lakes.

“The Auckland Boat Show is a major event run by the NZ Marine Industry Association for the benefit of its 500 members, which manufacture and import boats and marine equipment, or provide services nationwide.”

The organsiers added that exhibitors were supportive of the decision to focus on the next edition of the show, with unanimous support during the Zoom meeting.

Ticket holders will have their tickets automatically transferred to the new March show or will be able to receive refunds from iTicket, with more details available directly from iTicket soon.

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