The New Zealand Forklift Championships 2026 will take place at Logistics Automation New Zealand at Auckland Showgrounds on 10-11 November, putting the precision, skill and nerves of some of the country's top forklift operators to the test.

Competitors will tackle timed precision courses, novelty obstacle challenges and practical skills tests designed to showcase just how much expertise is required to safely manoeuvre the machines that keep New Zealand's warehouses, factories and supply chains moving.

The winners of each category will earn an expenses-paid entry to compete at Australia's national forklift championship, giving one Kiwi operator the chance to take their skills across the Tasman. Individual operators can enter free of charge, while businesses can enter two-driver corporate teams for $500, with 100 percent of corporate entry fees donated to Movember in support of men's health.