Media release
29 January 2013
Volvo Ocean Race to set sail for Auckland again
The Waitemata Harbour will again host the world’s elite adventure yacht racing crews, with confirmation today that
Auckland has won a coveted stopover role for the next two Volvo Ocean Races.
Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED), on behalf of Auckland Council, led a bid to host both the
2014-15 and 2017-18 races, following a hugely successful stopover in last year’s race which saw the inner Waitemata
lined with spectators on water and land, and helped Auckland to the silver medal at the prestigious Sport City Awards in
2012.
The event will see crews and support teams sail into Auckland for 15 days during each round-the-world race.
Auckland Mayor Len Brown says: “This is an exciting win for Auckland. New Zealand’s fabled sailing heritage, and the
affinity Aucklanders have with the sea which surrounds us, makes this city the perfect Volvo Ocean Race destination.
“My goal is for Auckland to become the world’s most liveable city. A key component of us meeting that goal, and
delivering on our ambitious economic transformation objectives, is to play host to major events such as the next two
Volvo Ocean Races.”
ATEED will invest $5.5 million from its Major Events Fund into hosting the two races, which an independent consultancy
expects to inject $7.49 million to the Auckland region’s GDP.
Jennah Wootten, ATEED General Manager Destination (acting), says today’s announcement is a fantastic way to start 2013’s
major events programme.
“This was an extremely competitive bid process, with an ever-expanding list of rival countries trying to host the Volvo
Ocean Race. Auckland winning the right to be a stopover for the next two races reflects ATEED’s growing global
reputation for delivering major international events.”
She says the stopovers are expected to generate about 18,000 new visitor nights for the region, and significant
international media coverage.
“Hosting important international sporting events is a key economic growth driver, and this is another important win to
add to Auckland’s portfolio alongside other globally renowned events such as the 2017 World Masters Games and the IRB
Junior World Championships 2014.
“Google statistics for New Zealand last year showed Volvo Ocean Race was the second highest trending search, which
clearly indicates the level of interest and support here for what is one of the world’s great sporting adventures.
“The city has shown it has the infrastructure, particularly in terms of waterfront facilities, to successfully host the
world’s most important sailing events.”
Team New Zealand entered the Volvo Ocean Race 2011-12 on board Camper, and it is hoped there will again be a Kiwi
challenge for the next event.
Ends