It's good news for sailing fans: SailGP will bring its brand of adrenaline-filled racing to Whakaraupō Lyttelton Harbour for two seasons in 2023 and 2025.
We were all a bit bummed when SailGP was forced to cancel its event planned for January 2022 due to Covid-19, but now the international sailing outfit have sweetened the deal. In partnership with ChristchurchNZ, SailGP will now be bringing four world-class sailing events to Aotearoa from 2023-2026, alternating years between Christchurch and Auckland. The two events are expected to bring more than 11,500 visitors to Christchurch.
“Having this extended agreement supported by central Government is a huge advantage for the city," said ChristchurchNZ’s GM Destination and Attraction Loren Heaphy. "It gives Christchurch more certainty because SailGP now has priority access to New Zealand, as well as unlocking more funding and expertise to help deliver the events. This is also a great opportunity to partner with Auckland to help make major events more sustainable for both cities.”
The first New Zealand Sail Grand Prix will take place in Christchurch in 2023. SailGP have partnered with Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke, kaitiaki of Whakaraupō Lyttelton Harbour, and Ngāti Wheke are currently developing a cultural festival and waka experiences that will be offered as part of the SailGP events.
"We’re even more excited about a rangatahi development programme for youth to learn about sailing and gain unique personal experiences to develop confidence, exposure to STEM subjects and high-performance sport,” said Manaia Rehu, Chair of Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke.
SailGP is the first climate-positive sports and entertainment property and will be 100% powered by clean energy by 2025. The championship is built on renewable energy – powered by wind, water, and human strength.
Planning is now underway for the season three event with community consultation to begin in the new year, along with sealing the remaining portion of the Naval Point car park.
Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel said: “Securing one SailGP event for Christchurch was exciting, so getting more than one year is a significant win for our city. I’m thrilled to welcome SailGP to New Zealand’s newest international sailing venue and know the city will reap the rewards of our expanded partnership.”