The 25th Auckland Boat Show opens with something genuinely new: a Women in Marine gathering that marks the first time the show has dedicated space to bringing together women from across the marine sector. Designed to spark honest conversation, forge meaningful connections, and leave attendees with practical tools they can use straight away, the inaugural event draws on the experience of accomplished women from both New Zealand and Australia.
At its heart, the event is about confidence, community, and the kind of candid discussion that rarely happens in more formal industry settings. Attendees can expect frank talk about what it actually means to build a career in the marine world, alongside purposeful networking and encouragement to step beyond familiar boundaries.
Hosting the session is Nicky Vaux, a marina entrepreneur, boating advocate, public speaker, and the voice behind the podcast The Boat Princess. Her approach centres on authentic dialogue rather than polished presentations, and she is clear about what she hopes the event will achieve.
"There are some incredible women in the marine industry in New Zealand, and many more I am yet to meet," says Vaux. "This event is about bringing us together, sharing our stories, and recognising that we are not alone. We have strategies we can use to build our success and relationships we can grow together. As cliché as it sounds, a rising tide really does lift all boats. Let's create our own rising tide."
Among the featured speakers is Isabell Zitzelsberger, founder of Wild Chix, an initiative built around empowering women in boating, fishing, and hunting. Her perspective on the event's significance is grounded in a broader shift she sees taking shape across the industry.
"Boat shows have traditionally been seen as spaces for men, but in reality, they're for ocean lovers and boating enthusiasts of every gender," says Zitzelsberger. "It's incredibly powerful to see more space being created for women in this industry, from complete beginners to experts, and to open the floor for real questions, learning, confidence and career development."
Hillary Buckman, Managing Director of Australia's Ocean Media, also welcomes the opportunity to reconnect with the New Zealand marine community.
"The marine world is built on relationships, real conversations, shared knowledge, and supporting one another," says Buckman. "Encouraging more women across all areas of the sector is something I'm proud to support."
The Women in Marine event takes place on Thursday from 8.15am to 9.30am on Level 3 of the Viaduct Events Centre, kicking off this milestone edition of the Auckland Boat Show.
