The 20th Auckland On Water Boat Show was marked with a celebratory breakfast at the Hilton Hotel on Friday 28 September. The event was attended by over 280 exhibitors and invited guests and was a celebration and reflection on how far the show has come from its small beginnings in 1999.
Guests enjoyed hearing from MC Peter Montgomery, and updates from Rod Marler of Panuku Development Auckland and NZ Marine & Composites ITO General Manager Chris van der Hor. NZ Marine Executive Director Peter Busfield reflected on the history and challenges the show has faced over the years and showed a short video montage of the show’s history.
Auckland Councillor Christine Fletcher, who was mayor in 1999 and instrumental in securing a site for the first show, presented certificates to exhibiting companies who had been committed to the show from the very beginning.
Keynote speaker Kevin Shoebridge, Chief Operating Officer of Emirates Team New Zealand gave guests a fascinating insight into the team’s defence and plans for the 36th America’s Cup. Our show team are already busy planning for the 2019 Auckland On Water Boat Show and more details will be available later this year.