Auckland’s harbour waterfront is the place to be this summer as the third Moana Auckland, New Zealand’s Ocean Festival, launches for a celebration of all things nautical, honouring one of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s most precious taonga.

From 28 February to 15 March 2026, Auckland’s waterfront will come to life with three weeks of ocean-inspired events that honour our heritage and celebrate our connection to the moana (ocean). 

Alongside favourites like the Z Manu World Champs and Auckland Boat Show, the 2026 festival introduces exciting New Zealand firsts, blending food, culture, and entertainment into a unique summer experience for everyone.

Z Manu World Champs

28 FEB - 14 MAR | Karanga Plaza | Free

Z Manu World Champs takes over the waterfront with a purpose-built jump tower to find 40 finalists across the two qualifying weekends. Expect big bombs, big energy, and big crowds as they hunt for the next Z Manu World Champ. There are Push Play sessions each day so anyone can give it a go alongside giveaways and games. Click here to learn more. 

Moana

Auckland On Water Boat Show

5 - 8 MAR | Viaduct Events Centre | $28 - $75

Set in the heart of the City of Sails, the Auckland Boat Show is New Zealand’s largest boat show and the place to see the latest releases in trailer power boats, luxury motor yachts, sail yachts, the commercial marine sector, parts, accessories, services and everything in between. Click here to learn more. 

Boat Show

Auckland Wooden Boat Festival 

13 - 15 MAR | Auckland Waterfront | Free

The Auckland Wooden Boat Festival returns to the waterfront situated across four iconic venues: Viaduct Events Centre, Jellicoe Harbour, The New Zealand Maritime Museum and Percy Vos Boat Shed. It's a free, family-friendly event on the waterfront with fun, hands-on activities and a harbour full of stunning wooden boats to explore. Click here to learn more. 

Wooden Boat

Cool down with an ice cream

Good food with a side of views

Your insider's guide

Your guide to accessing the city centre


With lots to do and see in the city, it’s helpful to know how best to get in and travel around.

We have guides on the best ways to get in, out and around on public transport - it's cheaper and easier than you think!

If you're driving in, here is a guide on which car parking buildings to use when visiting different areas of the city centre - whether it be Downtown, the waterfront or Midtown

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Flat fee of $7.50 per day on weekends at Fanshawe Street carpark. Find out more.

Kids ride free on public transport on weekends and public holidays. Find out more

Last updated: 03 December 2026