On 26 March, Mayor Phil Goff announced an in-principle agreement between Auckland Council, the government and Emirates Team New Zealand for Auckland to host America’s Cup 36 in 2021.
The in-principle agreement confirms the location of the America’s Cup bases and is subject to a vote by the council’s Governing Body on Thursday 29 March.
Mayor Phil Goff said, “Today we can look forward to hosting an America’s Cup in New Zealand. It’s good for Auckland and great for Kiwis who will get to experience in person the thrill of an America’s Cup contest in 2021 and cheer our team on.
“We have agreed on a base configuration that is less expensive than previous options and requires a much smaller extension into the harbour.
“It allows the earlier removal of hazardous substance tanks from the southern part of the point, is more straightforward to consent, will be quicker to construct and creates a positive legacy for Auckland.
“The America's Cup will bring vibrancy and economic benefits to Auckland and a chance to showcase our city and harbour, cutting-edge technology and the sporting skills of Kiwis.
“Hosting the cup enables the council to improve the city’s waterfront and city centre and the facilities can be used again at minimal cost for further cup defences.
“The land on Wynyard Point will ultimately become a linear park, which will be a great public space, and the sheltered water area between the Wynyard and Halsey Street wharves will also be a valuable asset for other maritime sports events such as dragon boats and Waka Ama,” said Mayor Goff.
Economic Development Minister David Parker said, “I am very pleased to advise that we have succeeded in negotiating a venue on the Auckland waterfront that Aucklanders and all New Zealanders can be proud of. It significantly reduces the intrusion into the harbour at the lowest practical cost.
“Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Mayor Goff and I all stated our commitment to limiting the intrusion into the harbour, while achieving a world-class venue for the cup event, and this delivers that,” said Mr Parker.
America’s Cup costs and base location
Mayor Goff said, “Construction and related costs totalling $212 million will be shared between the council and the government with the council contributing $98.5 million. Included in the government contribution is the Team New Zealand hosting fee.
“Under the agreement, the Viaduct Events Centre will now be home to Emirates Team New Zealand without extending Halsey Street Wharf into the harbour. One base will be on a Hobson Wharf extension and up to five bases on the eastern side of Wynyard Point.
“Officials from all parties have worked collaboratively over the past several months. I acknowledge the role played by all the parties in what was a robust negotiation.
“I look forward to working with the government and Emirates Team New Zealand to deliver the best America’s Cup yet,” said Mayor Phil Goff.
A new resource consent will be put to Auckland Council’s Governing Body on Thursday 29 March and subject to its approval, will be lodged by 6 April.
The alliance design and construction partners to deliver the infrastructure for the America’s Cup have also been appointed. They are McConnell Dowell, Downer, Beca and Tonkin & Taylor.
