SailGP has decided not to stage its upcoming event in Auckland, which was due to take place in March 2024, due to issues with the land required for a spectator facility.

In a statement, the council-run cultural agency Tātaki Auckland Unlimited says that Auckland has been working with SailGP to ‘explore all possible options’ to stage the event in the city.

‘Along with Auckland Council group, [we] had solutions for SailGP’s on-water course and on-land seating plans,’ Auckland Unlimited’s statement reads.

‘However, the unavailability of Wynyard Point land as a spectator facility proved to be a barrier to holding the event in Auckland. This land was part of SailGP’s original vision for the sailing competition.’

The SailGP regatta was slated to take place from 23-24 March 2024, and would have been among the highlights of the new Moana Auckland event.

The statement concludes: ‘We are excited to showcase Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour and waterfront at the inaugural Moana Auckland, New Zealand’s Ocean Festival in February and March next year.

‘Aucklanders and visitors can look forward to enjoying a range of activities and events, including the Millennium Cup superyacht regatta, Wooden Boat Festival, the popular Auckland Boat Show and the new World Manu Champs alongside some amazing entertainment for the whole family.’

SailGP has not issued a comment. However, a spokesperson tells MIN: “SailGP continues to work with its partners, including the relevant local and central government agencies, to progress planning for its Season 4 New Zealand event 23-24 March 2024. We will share more information as soon as it is available.”

In July, SailGP revealed details of a new regional structure and team for the Asia Pacific region as it headed into its expanded fourth season.

Once an area underwater, Wynyard Point was reclaimed using fill material from a former gasworks site. The lease on the various sites were due to expire between 2022-2024, however, in advance of the 36th America’s Cup event, negotiations enabled the businesses to relocate elsewhere earlier than anticipated.

The site is now leased by Emirates Team New Zealand. Remediation works to clear the site of containments are ongoing, as the site was previously used to store hazardous materials.

It’s been reported the decision to cancel the 2024 Auckland SailGP is related to a legal dispute over this area, and how much space was being made available for a spectator stand during the event.

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