Luxury operators says America’s Cup will triple growth

Luxury operators says America’s Cup will triple business growth

With a billion dollars expected to be injected into the economy with the America’s Cup and a world class yachting village planned for Auckland’s waterfront, one luxury operator says the benefits are endless.

Heletranz, luxury helicopter charter services whose business more than doubled in 2003 when the Louis Vuitton Cup and America’s Cup last took place in New Zealand, expects it to triple when the prestigious event returns in 2021.

Owner Sofia Ambler says Auckland businesses and in particular the luxury sector, stand to reap huge benefits from the event and the lead up to it.

“During the last America’s Cup we experienced a major increase in services chartered by high net worth individuals, both visiting and living here. This is an event that is tailored for the rich and wealthy and when they come to New Zealand, everyone reaps the benefits, from the hospitality sector to super yacht refits/boat builders to smaller tourism operators. Our business is in a good position with its luxury fleet of multi engine helicopters and IFR capacity, which for most of these visitors is a must.”

Heletranz further expects an increase in demand from the filming side, with Tony Monk Films and event photography.

“Arguably the most prestigious event to ever reach Auckland’s shore, it is important we support government plans to build the America’s Cup Village in the waterfront which include seven syndicate bases, restaurants and bars, and shared public spaces and entertainment areas. Just imagine what that will do for Auckland’s economy and its international appeal.”

Ambler points out New Zealand’s esteemed status in international tourism and the booming tourism industry, we have become a “bucket list” country to experience with the UHNW. She says when high net and ultra-high net worth individuals come here, they mostly come with the intention of experiencing New Zealand’s distinct and highly sought-after natural attractions, like walks, mountain biking, fishing, hunting as well as our world-renowned lodges, golf courses, food and wine.

While the number of the actual tourist influx isn’t projected to be huge, the event is estimated to generate a billion-dollar economic boost and place up to 8000 people in jobs (Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment).

The previous two America’s Cup events in Auckland generated a combined conservative estimate of $1.2 billion with a two-dollar return for every dollar invested (100% Pure New Zealand).

Luxury accommodation provider The Glasshouse expects an increase of between 60% to 80% in bookings in 2021, with a surge in the four-month period including the lead up to and during the Cup.

“Visitors at the Glasshouse will be the first people to get a glimpse of the super yachts coming into Auckland’s harbour, while they enjoy unparalleled coastal views, dramatic cliffs and the breathtaking surrounds. The Cup’s calibre of discerning following demands the best of the cities they visit, and we’re in the perfect position to deliver,” says owner John Fulton.

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