The New Zealand Millennium Cup’s Notice of Race has been released, and organisers are now inviting entries. The South Pacific’s superyacht regatta will take place from 31 January to 3 February.
Sharlou cut a sleek figure in the 2025 New Zealand Millennium Cup. Credit Jeff Brown/Breed Media
The destination regatta has seen steady growth over the last few editions as some of the regatta circuit’s most notable yachts have competed in the New Zealand event. From Newport regatta-winning Perseus^3, to the regatta debut of 80 metre Sea Eagle, and two time champion, Kawil, the regatta attracts adventurous yachts determined to add their name to the NZ Millennium Cup winner’s roll.
“We’re thrilled to officially release the Notice of Race,” says organiser Stacey Cook.
“We’ve had yachts waiting to enter, which makes us very excited for the racing to come in 2026.”
The regatta will be raced in Auckland, against the backdrop of the Waitemata Harbour. “Racing the regatta in the heart of our harbour city is an experience we love to give to our guests,” says Cook.
Sea Eagle made her regatta debut in the 2025 New Zealand Millennium Cup. Credit Jeff Brown/Breed Media
“These are the waters which have hosted America’s Cup showdowns, Volvo Ocean Race starts and honed generations of New Zealand sailors, so we know they’re a challenging, and very picturesque, place to race.”
“We really enjoyed our time at the New Zealand Millennium Cup regatta. The people are genuine and it was the most down to earth, real, fun and welcoming experience; it’s a regatta the way regattas should be,” says Burger van der Walt, captain of Perseus^3, 2024 NZ Millennium Cup winner.
The regatta’s headquarters form a private enclave in the heart of central Auckland, giving owners, crew and the race teams a spot to gather and discuss the day’s racing as soon as they step off.
New Zealand’s biggest city, Auckland sits on an isthmus between two large harbours with the natural playground long-revered by sailors. With award-winning superyacht marinas and refit yards, and thriving entertainment precincts fringing the water, it’s a location which lends itself to world-class regattas and enjoyable events both on and off the ocean.
Entry to the regatta is open now and entry forms are available from millenniumcup.com
