River Racing NZ Announces November Dates for 2027 & 2028 World Jet Boat Marathons.
The New Zealand river racing community prepares to welcome international competitors for two epic 1000km endurance events.
Christchurch, New Zealand — 16/12/2025 — River Racing NZ, the New Zealand Jet Boat River Racing Association, is thrilled to announce that subject to UIM Ratification the 2027 and 2028 World Jet Boat Marathons will be staged in November of each year. These back-to-back world-level endurance events will bring top jet boat teams to Aotearoa New Zealand for what promises to be two unforgettable editions of river racing’s premier marathon format.
While final route approvals and course confirmations are still in progress, River Racing NZ expects both marathons to be held across the South Island, most likely spanning river systems between Canterbury and Otago/Southland, covering approximately 1000 kilometres of challenging, high-speed, technical river racing. Further details on exact start/finish locations, stages, and support logistics will be released as soon as the course is confirmed.
“November gives us the best mix of river conditions, daylight hours, and event certainty for teams travelling from around the world,” said Aidan Flett of River Racing NZ. “We’re excited to lock in these dates early so competitors can start planning. The South Island offers some of the most iconic and demanding river racing terrain on the planet, and we can’t wait to showcase it.”
A Global Invitation: North American Teams Encouraged to Attend
River Racing NZ is issuing a special call to racers from the United States, Canada, and Mexico to join the marathons in 2027 and 2028. The association is committed to making it as straightforward as possible for international competitors to participate, including assistance with local equipment access and on-ground logistics.
To support overseas teams, River Racing NZ will be compiling a dedicated list of boats available for lease or purchase in New Zealand ahead of each marathon. This list will include a range of competitive options and will be shared directly with interested racers as it becomes available.
Expression of Interest Now Open
International racers who are considering attending are encouraged to register their interest early by completing River Racing NZ’s online Expression of Interest (EOI) Form.
EOI Link: https://forms.gle/7sSHrh4bncnaEh5g7
Submitting an EOI will ensure teams receive priority updates and tailored support, including help with:
Securing pre-run boats for course familiarisation
Arranging accommodation for teams and supporters
Organising vehicles and crew logistics if required
Event notices, course releases, and entry timelines
“We want international crews to feel confident that they can arrive, race hard, and enjoy the full New Zealand marathon experience,” said Aidan. “The EOI helps us understand what teams need and lets us build the right support systems early.”
More Information Coming Soon
River Racing NZ will release additional announcements over the coming months, including:
Confirmed course and stage breakdown
Official entry opening dates
Safety and support requirements
Boat lease/sale availability list
Local partnership and sponsorship opportunities
Teams, sponsors, and media are encouraged to follow River Racing NZ channels for ongoing updates.
Media & Enquiries:
River Racing NZ
New Zealand Jet Boat River Racing Association
Email: admin@riverracingnz.com
Website / Socials: www.riverracingnz.com | https://www.facebook.com/NZJBRRA
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