Moana Auckland, New Zealand’s Ocean Festival, is back for its third edition in 2026, bringing an ocean-inspired event to Auckland’s waterfront with a refreshed programme.
Running from 28 February to 15 March 2026, Moana Auckland plans to deliver events which capture the spirit of summer, the power of the ocean, and the cultural heartbeat of Auckland.
The festival is expected to attract around 100,000 people to Auckland’s waterfront, injecting vibrancy, supporting local businesses and delivering an estimated $4.5 million boost to regional GDP.
The festival is an Auckland Council Event, delivered by the council-controlled organisation Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU), the region’s cultural, events and destination agency.
Mayor of Auckland, Wayne Brown says: “It’s fantastic to see Moana Auckland return for its third year. As a keen boatie and surfer myself, this has special appeal to me, and is something that’s defines Auckland. Our harbours and beaches are a big part of who we are.
“We’ll also have SailGP returning earlier in February, which means more international visitors will get to experience Auckland events. This is a festival for everyone – locals, families, visitors – anyone who wants to experience the best of our waterfront, our stunning Waitematā Harbour and our way of life.
“These events had a proven return on investment last time around, and I suspect the same for this summer.”
Celebrating Auckland
Nick Hill, CEO of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, says Moana Auckland is all about bringing the waterfront to life with a celebration that’s shaped by local talent and home-grown events.
“It extends that summer feeling just a little longer and invites Aucklanders and visitors alike to dive into everything that makes this place special.
“With a range of events happening in the city in January and February, Moana Auckland helps maintain that energy on the waterfront, extend the visitor season and reinforce Auckland as the place to be over summer.”