The newly opened Opua Bay of Islands Swordfishing Club overlooks Opua Wharf at the gateway to the Bay of Islands.
The newly opened Opua Bay of Islands Swordfishing Club overlooks Opua Wharf at the gateway to the Bay of Islands.
Just months after the grand opening of its new clubhouse in Ōpua, the Bay of Islands Swordfish Club has secured a major new event expected to bring anglers, visitors and economic benefits to the Far North.
The inaugural CMP Billfish Classic will be held at the new venue in Februarynext year, with more than half of the tournament’s 100 boat spots already filled.
The new clubhouse was opened in February, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxton cutting the ribbon, alongside representatives from local iwi Ngāti Manu, the former Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, Kelvin Davis, and Judge Greg Davis.
The event is being organised by Sportfishing Dynamix, the team behind the hugely successful Kubota Billfish Classic, which last year claimed the title of the world’s biggest fishing tournaments with 440 teams and about 1800 anglers.
Managing director Trevor Woolston said interest in the event has already exceeded expectations.
“We have never had a subscription to an event at this level this far in advance of the event.”
He said the Swordfish Cub was chosen because of its history and its new facilities.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was there to cut the ribbon.
NAG 10Feb26 - Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was there to cut the ribbon.
NAG 11Feb26 - Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was there to cut the ribbon.
“The new premises of the Bay of Islands Swordfish Club allow boats to directly access the clubrooms straight from the marina. The club has been hosting fishing tournaments for over 50 years and has a long-serving history of over 100 years in the fishing industry.”
He said they also expect the event to provide a boost to the wider Bay of Islands economy, with anglers and supporters using local hospitality and marine services.
“We will look to support a lot of the local charity groups with targeted events and opportunities. We will be looking for support from local volunteer groups who we will also be giving donations back to. We are working with a number of local businesses and providing sponsorship opportunities to promote their products and services.”
He said a tournament of this scale will bring people together and focus on camaraderie that benefits anglers and locals.
“We aim to support the local community and bring revenue to the area. All funds will go back to the winning anglers and community.”
Woolston said the tournament is planned as an annual event and will become part of the wider national billfish calendar.
Club manager, Ross Brljevich, said the venue, perched on the water’s edge at Bay of Islands Marina, has maintained a busy calendar.
“We’ve hosted the Mainstream Reel Ladies Tournament and ITM Fishing Tournament, bringing in hundreds of participants. These annual favourites will return next year, and our Thursday members’ nights are already a local favourite.”
“The venue’s become a real community hub and a go-to for special occasions thanks to its unique waterfront setting.”
To keep the momentum going, Brljevich said plans are underway for an extended outdoor area with a covered marquee to offer a flexible, year-round event space.
Far North Holdings Limited, the commercial arm of the Far North District Council, owns and operates the Bay of Islands Marina.
Chris Galbraith, general manager of Maritime at Far North Holdings Limited, said, “The new clubhouse is already a vital addition to the events and facilities on offer for locals and visitors. It’s a strong start for the Swordfish Club in Ōpua.”
