Bay of Islands Sailing Week

Each January, the Bay of Islands transforms into New Zealand’s premier sailing destination as hundreds of yachts gather for a week of racing, beach parties, and serious competition. Bay of Islands Sailing Week draws crews from across the country to test their skills on some of the most beautiful waters in Aotearoa. Over seven days of racing, the event combines top-level competition with the relaxed summer vibe that defines the Far North, creating one of the season’s most anticipated yachting events.

The Event at a Glance

Bay of Islands Sailing Week typically runs over seven days in late January, with racing scheduled across multiple days throughout the week. Competitors can enter various divisions based on their boat type and experience level, from high-performance racers to cruising yachts. Each day features different courses around the bay, taking advantage of the sheltered waters and varied conditions the region offers.

The event is based around several Bay of Islands locations, with different clubs and venues hosting activities throughout the week. While the racing is competitive, the atmosphere remains welcoming. Crews range from seasoned professionals to keen amateurs, and there’s a strong sense that everyone’s there for the same reason: good sailing and good company. Between race days, the focus shifts to social events that bring competitors and spectators together.

More Than Just Racing

The racing might be the main event, but the social side of Sailing Week is what keeps people coming back. Each day on the water is followed by gatherings at various clubs around the bay, where crews swap stories and compare notes on the day’s conditions. The prizegiving ceremonies happen throughout the week, celebrating daily winners and building anticipation for the overall results.
The standout social event is the Beach Party at Otehei Bay. After days of competitive racing, crews and supporters head to this sheltered bay for an evening of live music, food, and drinks right on the sand. It’s become one of the week’s most popular traditions, offering a chance to unwind in a stunning location. The mix of serious racing by day and relaxed celebration by night captures what makes Sailing Week special.

The Spectator Experience

You don’t need to be a sailor to enjoy Sailing Week. The racing happens across the bay, and various shoreline spots offer good viewing depending on where the day’s course is set. Paihia and Russell waterfronts are popular vantage points, and if you have access to a small boat, getting out on the water gives you a front-row seat to the action.
The week adds to the already busy summer atmosphere around the Bay. Local cafes and restaurants see plenty of sailing crews between races, and the buzz around town is noticeably different when the event’s on. Families often time their Bay of Islands holiday to coincide with Sailing Week, combining beach days and other activities with watching the racing. The Beach Party at Otehei Bay is open to everyone, not just competitors, making it a genuine community celebration that visitors can be part of.

A Growing Tradition

Bay of Islands Sailing Week has been running for over two decades, growing from a smaller regional event into one of the key fixtures on New Zealand’s summer sailing calendar. The event’s success relies on the dedicated volunteers who manage everything from race organization to running the social events. Local sailing clubs work together to host different aspects of the week, sharing the load and creating a true Bay-wide event.

What keeps the event strong is the mix of regular returners and new participants each year. Some crews have been coming since the early days, while others are discovering it for the first time. That blend of experience and fresh energy helps maintain the event’s character while allowing it to evolve with the times.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re in the Bay of Islands during late January, Sailing Week is worth experiencing. Whether you watch from shore, join the Beach Party, or simply soak up the atmosphere around the marinas, it adds another dimension to a summer holiday in Northland. The event brings an energy to the region that’s different from the usual holiday pace, and it’s a chance to see the Bay at its most active.
For full event details, race schedules, and information on attending social events, visit the Bay of Islands Sailing Week website.