'Disgraceful . . . so unfair' – Auckland volunteers' America’s Cup reaction

Hard-working volunteers are among the many Kiwis disappointed at Team New Zealand's decision to host the next America’s Cup in Barcelona.

A team of more than 600 volunteers ran the 36^th America’s Cup Village in Auckland which was was a hive of activity for more than four months in 2020 and 2021 and had more 800,000 visitors.

Volunteer Debra Perfitt told TWN she wondered if visitors and participants would receive the same welcome they did in Auckland.

“I'm sorry that the defenders won't be on home waters where they can be cheered on by their native fans, friends, and families,” she  said.

Another, Denise Jamieson, said it was sad, especially after a rough few years Auckland has had during the pandemic.

“Would be nice to have kept the racing here but as always its down to the money… I would say a lot of people will no longer be interested in the event,” she told TWN.

Some people in the 600 strong team, known as ‘sunflowers’ are optimistic about the move.

“Nothing is stopping us from setting up a mega fan zone to enjoy the cup on land … I can’t think of anything better than sitting in front of a massive big screen with a thousand screaming fans alongside watching our team smoke the rest of the world,” one volunteer said on Facebook.

CROWDS GATHER TO WATCH A RACE IN THE 36^TH AMERICA’S CUP VILLAGE, MARCH 2021. PHOTO: LEONARDO ZAUGG

Kiwis may get a chance to see Team New Zealand out on the water around Tāmaki Makaurau later this year when they begin practicing.

The decision to go offshore didn’t come as a surprise for many, with Team NZ sending some of their leadership team overseas to complete negotiations and the Barcelona mayor leaking the decision on Tuesday.

The 37^th America’s Cup is expected to be held in September and October 2024 in Barcelona, with teams able to start sailing later this year.