Auckland hospitality businesses are looking forward to a big month ahead, starting with Sail GP and Valentine’s Day this weekend which are set to draw thousands of people into the region’s many food & beverage and accommodation venues.
After successfully hosting Auckland’s first SailGP event in 2025, the fast-foiling catamarans return to the Waitematā Harbour for a second year on 14 and 15 February.
With more than 25,000 spectators taking in the racing at the inaugural event, businesses are looking forward to another influx this year – coupled with Valentines Day on Saturday that will draw even more guests out and about across the region.
Kristy Phillips, Hospitality New Zealand’s Chief Executive, says accommodation providers are reporting strong bookings for the upcoming weekend, and the month.
“We’re hearing from members that room bookings are strong. This translates into more people out and about in the region, delivering increased foot traffic that will have a positive effect on restaurants, bars and retailers.”
“With Valentine’s Day falling on the same weekend as SailGP, there will be an uplift of guests for restaurants, bars and accommodation providers, whether that’s from visitors or locals who want to enjoy a special meal, a night away, or everything else the city has to offer.”
“Major events like SailGP create energy and vibrancy in the city, and when you combine that with occasions like Valentine’s Day, it really helps drive visitation and spending across the wider hospitality sector.”
Busy weekends look set to continue throughout February, with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo arriving in Auckland for the first time.
The event will be held at Eden Park over three nights on 19–21 February 2026, with more than 1,000 performers taking part in a fusion of music, pageantry, and pride. It is forecast to generate 35,000 visitor nights and $2.3 million in GDP for the region – including hospitality and accommodation venues.
Michael Stamboulidis, General Manager at QT Auckland says there’s a big buzz in town.
“Whoever you speak to in accommodation in Auckland will tell you these are some of the most exceptional weekends of late in terms of bookings.
“It’s the busiest I’ve seen in my time in Auckland and it’s great to have a strong events calendar to boost occupancy and vibrancy in the city.”
Kristy Phillips says: “February is shaping up to be a standout month for Auckland, with events to draw visitors into the region, and encouraging locals to get out and about as well.
“There’s some good momentum, with this summer anecdotally feeling busier than recent years according to some of our members. We’re optimistic that this strong run will carry through the rest of the year.”