The 2025 PIC Harbour Classic promises to be the ultimate sailing event of the season, taking place over the weekend of 28th February to 1st March.
The yacht race is a 14-nautical-mile sprint starting at North Head and weaving through the picturesque East Coast Bays before returning to the harbour. Spectators can witness the Waitematā Harbour come alive with vibrant sails and energy from iconic vantage points like North Head and the East Coast Bay beaches, providing breathtaking views of the action.
Start line of the 2024 PIC HarbourClassic – credit JoshuaMcCormack
The 2025 PIC Harbour Classic promises to be the ultimate sailing event of the season, taking place over the weekend of 28th February to 1st March.
The yacht race is a 14-nautical-mile sprint starting at North Head and weaving through the picturesque East Coast Bays before returning to the harbour. Spectators can witness the Waitematā Harbour come alive with vibrant sails and energy from iconic vantage points like North Head and the East Coast Bay beaches, providing breathtaking views of the action.
For competitors, the event offers a full weekend of activities, including a welcome party, the main race, and a prizegiving celebration. “This year, we’re excited to add feeder races on Friday night, giving clubs the opportunity to start their own race from their home base and finish off at Jellicoe Wharf managed by us.” says Adrian. Boats can then berth in the heart of Auckland for the entire weekend, ready to join in the festivities. “It’s a unique opportunity to be part of the action and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.”
This year’s event is part of Moana Auckland Festival which celebrates the cities connection to the ocean, a natural fit for the PIC Harbour Classic. ““Moana Auckland is about acknowledging our ocean taonga and everything it offers,” says Nick Hill, CE Tātaki Auckland Unlimited. “Now into its second year, this six-week event showcases the beauty and history of the Waitematā Harbour through events, performances and whānau-friendly activities. We’re delighted to have the PIC Harbour Classic as part of the festival.”
With inclusivity at its heart, the PIC Harbour Classic invites people from all walks of life to join in. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or new to the water, this festival is a chance to experience the vibrancy of Auckland’s sailing scene and the sense of community that comes from being part of a shared adventure.
As an extra highlight, Saturday night features a live concert by Six60, part of the Moana Auckland Festival. “While we can’t take credit for arranging the concert, it makes the PIC Harbour Classic even more unforgettable. Whether you attend the show or listen from the comfort of your boat, it’s an instant afterparty that’s not to be missed!”
At $50, entry is accessible to all, plus $10 from every entry goes directly back to local sailing clubs, reinforcing the event’s commitment to supporting grassroots sailing.
“We are proud to continue as naming rights sponsor of this fantastic event in 2025,” said PIC Insurance Brokers interim CEO Bruce Morrison.
“It’s exciting to offer the New Zealand sailing community a premier event at an affordable price, allowing more Kiwis to participate in the festivities,” he said.
The combination of thrilling racing, prime waterfront access, and world-class entertainment ensures the PIC Harbour Classic will be a highlight for both sailors and spectators alike.
Don’t miss this incredible weekend of racing, community, and celebration. Whether you’re on the water or cheering from the shore, the PIC Harbour Classic is an experience like no other.
About the PIC Harbour Classic
The PIC Harbour Classic takes place from February 28 to March 1, 2025. The weekend begins with a Welcome Party for competitors on Friday, February 28, followed by the main event—a thrilling yacht race on Saturday, March 1. The day concludes with prizegiving and the opportunity to attend the Six60 concert or listen from the comfort of competitors own boats moored in Jellicoe wharf. Race participants can moor here for the entire weekend, while spectators enjoy prime viewing of the yacht race from iconic locations like North Head and the East Coast Bays.
For more information visit www.harbourclassic.co.nz
About the Moana Auckland Festival:
Moana Auckland, New Zealand’s Ocean Festival, brings together on and off-water events from 27 January to 9 March 2025. Presented by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, highlights include the Z World Manu Champs, Auckland Boat Show, PIC Harbour Classic, waterfront concerts, and family-friendly activities—celebrating Auckland’s maritime spirit.
For more information visit www.aucklandnz.com/moana
