There is a reason the Outdoor Expo has grown into New Zealand's largest celebration of outdoor life: it was never conceived as a typical trade show. Its founder had something more ambitious in mind, a place where a genuine love of the outdoors could be shared, discoveries made, and new adventures sparked. That founding spirit has gathered momentum over the years, drawing thousands of visitors to each edition.
In 2025, the event runs across 4 and 5 October at Canterbury Agricultural Park in Christchurch. Gates open at 9am Saturday and the expo wraps at 4pm Sunday, with the park filled throughout by a wide range of themed zones covering 4×4 touring, hunting and fishing, campervans and caravans, camping and tramping, apparel and equipment, boating and water sports, adventure tourism, equestrian pursuits, cycling, outdoor living, and much more besides.
For those with salt water or freshwater in their veins, the boating precinct is shaping up as one of the standout drawcards. A strong line-up of prominent New Zealand boat builders will have their craft on display, with Stabicraft, Haines Hunter, and RaeLine among the headline names confirmed for the show.
White Pointer Boats will bring their 750SC and 840SC models to the floor, reflecting more than three decades of boat building expertise. "Come and see what 32 years of boat building experience looks like," the team says, extending a personal invitation for visitors to meet the builders themselves.
Joining them will be Osprey, Huntsman, DNA Boats, and Hydro Marine, while supporting organisations including Maritime New Zealand, Coastguard, Jet Boating NZ, and Sports Marine will also have a presence on site, making the expo a comprehensive destination for anyone passionate about boating.
The appeal stretches well beyond the watercraft. Caravans, 4WDs, adventure tourism operators, and community clubs all feature alongside a healthy selection of food and beverage options. Visitors can get hands-on with gear, taste local produce, and connect directly with the organisations that shape New Zealand's outdoor culture.
