The Cocksy Classic is back at D’Urville Island this this Saturday, bringing with it a unique fishing competition.

Originally launched in 2020 as a memorial event for much‑loved TV builder John “Cocksy” Cocks, the competition quickly grew into an annual fundraiser for the Kiwi Kids Charity. After finding a loyal following in the North Island, the event made its way south to D’Urville Island.

This isn’t your average fishing comp. While catching fish is part of the fun, the Cocksy Classic is really about banter, creativity and community spirit. Friendly protests, playful rule‑bending and even bribing the judges (for charity, of course) are all part of the experience, with the coveted Golden Fleece awarded for standout effort, attitude and classic Kiwi flair.

John “Cocksy” Cocks

The core species for the D’Urville Island competition are snapper, kingfish, kahawai, blue cod and crayfish, with a wild card species announced the night before to keep competitors on their toes. Fish are judged using a mix of lengths, weights and mystery measures, making things fair — and entertaining — for everyone involved.

The 2026 Cocksy Classic D’Urville Island Competition takes place on Saturday 21 February, with fishing starting at 12:01pm. The weigh‑in closes at 4.30pm, followed by dinner at 5.30pm and prizegiving from 6.30pm at the D’Urville Island Wilderness Resort.

Whether you’re there to chase fish, share a laugh, or support a great cause, the Cocksy Classic promises a day on the water that’s every bit as memorable as it is meaningful.

Further details and entry forms can be found here – Entry | The Cocksy Classic

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2025 D’Urville Results

Raised $22,000

D’Urville Island 2025 Overall Winner – GOLDEN FLEECE – Greg (Good Rooster Skipper)

Longest Kingi – All Crew on Dirty Oar

Longest Snapper – Alex on Unsinkable

Longest Kahawai – Mik on Back N Business

Longest Blue Cod – All Crew on Dirty Oar

Heaviest Crayfish – Keelan on Back N Business

Wild Card Species (John Dory) – Ryan on Purple Pnetrator

Creative Catch – Tessa on Leilani with Baby Shark