On Saturday 19 July 2025, Wellingtonians were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle as the Crane Association of New Zealand (CANZ) rolled out a crane parade to celebrate its 50th annual conference.
The event was not just about showcasing impressive machines, but also about bringing cranes into the public eye, raising awareness of crane careers, and creating a memorable family day out.
For most people, cranes are glimpsed only from a distance – towering above construction sites, hidden behind fences, and seemingly out of reach. The Crane Parade flipped that script, connecting the community with the industry in a tangible, up-close way. Families could not only see these extraordinary machines moving through the heart of the capital but also get hands-on once they parked up.
The parade aimed to spark curiosity about the world of cranes, inspire future operators, and give the public a chance to celebrate alongside the industry in marking CANZ’s half-century milestone.
The response from the industry was overwhelming. In the lead-up, CANZ confirmed 23 cranes in the parade – with companies still calling the day before, eager to be part of the action. On the day, Wellington delivered picture-perfect sunshine as crowds lined the streets to welcome the machines.
Excitement built as the convoy left the staging area at Wellington Stadium, winding its way through the city and onto Cable Street. As the flashing pilot lights of the cranes appeared, the energy in the crowd was palpable. Children squealed with delight as operators tossed out lollies and merchandise from cab windows, while crane enthusiasts of all ages gathered to watch the slow, powerful procession.
Once parked up on Cable Street, the real magic began. Skilled operators manoeuvred their cranes into place with surgical precision, turning the waterfront into a living showcase of engineering excellence. The public wasted no time getting involved – queues 20-deep formed at every crane as kids and adults alike waited for their turn to sit in the cab of these massive machines.
The looks of pure joy on children’s faces as they climbed into the driver’s seat said it all. Parents took photos, operators answered questions, and the atmosphere was one of genuine community celebration.
A Resounding Success
Feedback from the day has been nothing short of incredible. Families and crane lovers raved about the experience, and requests have already poured in from other cities to host their own crane parades. Wellington locals, too, are keen to see the event return.
The operators and companies involved were thrilled by the turnout and engagement. For many, it was a chance to proudly share their work with the public and feel that appreciation reflected back. Perhaps the most rewarding moment came when one young visitor asked how they could sign up for a crane apprenticeship – a perfect reminder of why the event was held in the first place.
The Wellington Crane Parade was a fitting tribute to 50 years of CANZ and a glimpse into the future of the industry. It celebrated the machines, the people who operate them, and the communities they help build. Most importantly, it showed New Zealanders that cranes aren’t just construction tools – they’re symbols of possibility, careers of the future, and awe-inspiring feats of engineering that capture the imagination of every generation.
As CANZ looks ahead to the next 50 years, one thing is certain: cranes have never been more loved.