The New Zealand Offshore Powerboat Association (NZOPA) has confirmed that Round 2 of its 2025–26 Championship will go ahead at Taupō on 15 November, after community backing rescued the event from an uncertain fate.
Following the successful season opener at Hobbs Bay, Gulf Harbour, organisers found themselves confronting an unexpected challenge. Unplanned venue costs and safety logistics had placed the central-North Island round in serious doubt, threatening to disrupt what had been a promising start to the season. The association moved to address the shortfall, and the response from supporters proved decisive.
In a message shared with the broader offshore racing community, organisers gave voice to the relief felt throughout the association:
“Awesome news — Taupō is back on! Thanks to the amazing support from our community, we’ve been able to cover the unexpected costs and keep this round alive. We really appreciate everyone who stepped up to help make it happen. Can’t wait to see everyone in Taupō!”
The confirmation has been welcomed by competitors and fans alike, many of whom have been watching NZOPA's steady rebuild since its relaunch with considerable interest.
The season got off to a flying start at Hobbs Bay, where the opening round represented the association's first Auckland-area event in more than a decade. Big-water conditions off Gulf Harbour gave competitors and spectators plenty to talk about, and a strong entry list signalled real intent from the offshore racing community. For those who remembered the sport's Auckland presence from years past, the occasion carried something of a homecoming feel, marking the return of offshore racing to the region after 12 years away.
Round 1 made clear that the 2025–26 championship would be no procession. In Supercat Lite, Lanslow Engineering and Rainbow Haulage were already exchanging blows at the front of the fleet, while Sports 200 HP was shaping up as a straight fight between Gen 2 and Supersonic. In Sports 70, Cougar arrived with clear intentions to defend its crown against all comers. Mechanical issues and heavy seas added an unpredictable edge to proceedings, yet the response from fans and competitors pointed to one of the most competitive NZOPA seasons in recent memory.
With the Taupō round now secured, teams are turning their attention to Lake Taupō itself, a venue that combines a spectacular backdrop with conditions demanding enough to sort the prepared from the unprepared. Engines are being tuned and crews tightened as Round 2 approaches.
NZOPA's leadership has pointed to the groundswell of community support as evidence that the grassroots foundations of the sport remain solid. The Taupō event is expected to draw seasoned campaigners alongside newcomers keen to be part of an offshore racing revival that appears to be gathering genuine momentum.
