And just like that, the inaugural New Zealand Sail Grand Prix | Christchurch is sold out, with all remaining tickets snapped up after just 24 hours of public sale.
Event Director Karl Budge says he’s delighted with the demand. “We are absolutely thrilled to have had this level of interest in the first-ever New Zealand Sail Grand Prix. Hosting an event of this scale has been a long time coming for Christchurch and we can’t wait to put on an amazing spectacle here next March.”
One of the fastest-growing sports and entertainment properties in the world, SailGP makes its New Zealand debut on 18-19 March 2023 – delivering two action-packed days of short, sharp fleet races on Whakaraupō, Lyttelton Harbour, with nine national teams going head to head in identical F50 catamarans.
Speaking to a packed amphitheatre of more than 200 residents and community members last night, Budge said Whakaraupō, Lyttelton Harbour would be an unmatched venue for the global league.
“Whakaraupō, Lyttelton Harbour will be a venue like no other for SailGP. Event-goers will be up-close to the action on the water. Naval Point grandstands will be just 40 metres from the course, which is visually stunning in a unique natural amphitheatre.”
Budge encourages those who missed out to get involved in other areas. “There will also be plenty of opportunities for locals to get involved in the action, whether through our volunteer programme, youth internships, school outreach events, community activations and more.”
The event, which is estimated to generate $3.2million in tourism expenditure in Christchurch alone, would offer a range of benefits to the region, says Tracey Wilson, ChristchurchNZ’s Acting General Manager of Destination & Attraction.
“This is an exceptional opportunity to showcase to the world everything our region has to offer. Our pristine harbour, vibrant central city, unparalleled natural environment and a unique cultural narrative will be on display to a global audience and we can’t wait to welcome them,” Wilson says.
Additional information about on-land viewing, including a free live site in Christchurch city centre will be shared in due course, alongside details of a limited bring-your-own-boat programme.
Find out more about ticket categories at sailgp.com/newzealand
Key public information related to the New Zealand Sail Grand Prix can be found at christchurchnz.com/sailgp.
