NEWS
Blessing of the Boats 2026 cancelled
5th Feb, 2026
Kia ora whānau,
With heavy hearts, we’re sharing that the 2026 Blessing of the Boats will not go ahead. Following advice from Wellington Water and Wellington City Council regarding the current Moa Point wastewater discharge, and with public health and safety as our top priority, we’ve made the decision to cancel this year’s blessing.
The Blessing of the Boats is a deeply cherished Island Bay tradition, and we know how much it means to our community. This decision hasn’t been made lightly, but the current situation means it’s not appropriate to hold water-based events this year. We’re committed to doing the right thing by our community and our bay, and we look forward to bringing the blessing back in 2027 when it can be celebrated safely.
We’d also like to reinforce advice to stay off the beach and out of the water, as conditions are currently unsafe. Find out more here at Wellington Water.The good news is that Day in the Bay is still very much on. All land-based events will go ahead as planned, including the parade, markets, food trucks, live music, entertainment and family activities throughout Shorland Park.
Thank you for your understanding and support. We can’t wait to see you enjoying the festival — and we look forward to returning to the water together next year.
Ngā mihi nui,
Island Bay Festival organisers
Press Release
Kia ora whānau,
With heavy hearts, we’re sharing that the 2026 Blessing of the Boats will not go ahead. Following advice from Wellington Water and Wellington City Council regarding the current Moa Point wastewater discharge, and with public health and safety as our top priority, we’ve made the decision to cancel this year’s blessing.
The Blessing of the Boats is a deeply cherished Island Bay tradition, and we know how much it means to our community. This decision hasn’t been made lightly, but the current situation means it’s not appropriate to hold water-based events this year. We’re committed to doing the right thing by our community and our bay, and we look forward to bringing the blessing back in 2027 when it can be celebrated safely.
We’d also like to reinforce advice to stay off the beach and out of the water, as conditions are currently unsafe. Find out more here at Wellington Water.The good news is that Day in the Bay is still very much on. All land-based events will go ahead as planned, including the parade, markets, food trucks, live music, entertainment and family activities throughout Shorland Park.
Thank you for your understanding and support. We can’t wait to see you enjoying the festival — and we look forward to returning to the water together next year.
Ngā mihi nui,
Island Bay Festival organisers
Press Release
Moa Point Incident
Wednesday 4th, Feb 2026
Kia ora whānau,
Festival organisers are aware of the current wastewater situation at Moa Point wastewater plant Wellington’s south coast. We are in close contact with the relevant authorities and working carefully to determine the safest approach for any water-based events during the Island Bay Festival.
Your safety and enjoyment are our top priority.
Here’s what you need to know:
All Day in the Bay Festival land based events away from the beach will be running as planned - music, food, games and markets.
Further updates about the Blessing of the Boats and beach access on Sunday 8th Feb to come.
Tangata Manu Birdman (Feb 13th) will now be moved to Shorland Park. More details to come.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
www.wellingtonwater.co.nz
Kia ora whānau,
Festival organisers are aware of the current wastewater situation at Moa Point wastewater plant Wellington’s south coast. We are in close contact with the relevant authorities and working carefully to determine the safest approach for any water-based events during the Island Bay Festival.
Your safety and enjoyment are our top priority.
Here’s what you need to know:
All Day in the Bay Festival land based events away from the beach will be running as planned - music, food, games and markets.
Further updates about the Blessing of the Boats and beach access on Sunday 8th Feb to come.
Tangata Manu Birdman (Feb 13th) will now be moved to Shorland Park. More details to come.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
www.wellingtonwater.co.nz
