The ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix | Auckland is sailing into town February 14-15, bringing futuristic F50 catamarans, stadium-style drama, and a summer party atmosphere to the heart of Waitematā Harbour. With tickets just announced and elite foiling action on the horizon, this is shaping up to be Auckland’s most adrenaline-charged weekend of the year. Get your tickets here to lock in your spot.
What Is SailGP? (It’s Basically F1 On Water)
Picture a high-octane global league where national teams pilot identical 50-foot F50 foiling catamarans—machines that shoot across the water at blistering speeds. These boats have fast, titanium-carbon T-foils that promise smooth control and jaw-dropping velocity. Tested speeds have topped 100 km/h!
Take in all the action from the perfectly placed race stadium on Wynyard Point; purpose-built grandstands will tower in front of the racing site, providing fans with close-range views of the start, the turns, and the finish line. Up from around 7,740 seats in 2025 to over 10,200 in 2026, these grandstands offer foiling right on your doorstep.
What’s more, SailGP isn’t just about the racing, it’s a full-blown festival on land and water. Think DJs and live music setting the tone, pop-up bars pouring cold drinks, gourmet food trucks dishing out local flavours, and fan zones where you can get hands-on with sailing tech or catch athlete Q&As. Big screens and commentary keep you plugged into the action while you soak up the atmosphere, and premium lounges or island venues transform race day into an all-inclusive summer party. From giveaways and merch stalls to sundowner beats as the harbour lights up, SailGP delivers an entertainment experience that goes far beyond the boats.
SailGP made its action-packed debut in Auckland in January 2025 and shattered attendance records, earning a crowd-pleasing score to boot. In 2026, SailGP returns over Valentine’s weekend—14 & 15 February 2026—with big crowds, bigger drama, and Auckland in peak summer mode. Get your tickets here for the ultimate summer spectacle.
