Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour will not host the thunderous spectacle of SailGP in 2027 after the government rejected a crucial funding application, scuttling plans for the event’s return.
The decision brings a sudden halt to what many hoped would be a celebrated homecoming for the high-speed foiling catamaran series. Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, the city’s economic and cultural agency, confirmed the outcome, expressing its disappointment after extensive efforts to secure the race.
The agency’s chief executive, Nick Hill, said Auckland had met all its obligations to host the event, including resolving scheduling conflicts and committing local funds and infrastructure. The proposal, however, depended on a joint funding model between Auckland Council and the central government.
Funding bid fails to meet criteria
The government’s refusal hinged on the event’s failure to satisfy the stringent criteria of New Zealand’s Major Events Fund (MEF). In a letter to Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston explained the rationale behind the decision.
We worked incredibly hard to try and make this happen and are committed to SailGP returning to the Waitematā Harbour in future years.</blockquote>
Ms Upston stated that SailGP's application was assessed on its ability to deliver "net national economic benefits to New Zealand," primarily by attracting international visitors and generating direct event spending. The assessment concluded that the 2027 proposal did not meet this threshold, particularly given the timeframes involved. This funding bid followed a complex negotiation process. A previous offer of $5 million from the government had been accepted in principle last year, but that deal fell apart when an agreement on race dates could not be reached with SailGP organisers. A subsequent request for a higher amount was submitted in February this year, which has now been formally declined, mirroring concerns over persistent high inflation.
The MEF, managed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, is designed to support major events that generate significant and lasting benefits for the country. Its investment strategy prioritises events that showcase New Zealand on the world stage and stimulate economic activity, a benchmark the government concluded the Auckland SailGP event would not meet for 2027.
A history of challenges
This is not the first time Auckland has faced difficulties in hosting the global racing series. An earlier event was relocated from the city to Lyttelton Harbour in Christchurch after organisers could not secure the necessary land at Wynyard Point for team bases and operations. That setback highlighted the logistical hurdles of staging large-scale events on Auckland’s busy waterfront, a recurring theme that seems to plague major projects, from transport upgrades to new housing developments.
The combination of land-use disputes and now funding shortfalls paints a challenging picture for major event proponents in the city. Despite the immense popularity of sailing in New Zealand and the proven success of past SailGP events in drawing large crowds and creating a vibrant, stadium-like atmosphere, securing a long-term future in Auckland remains elusive.
SailGP co-founder and CEO, Sir Russell Coutts, acknowledged the passion of local fans in a statement confirming the 2027 cancellation. "SailGP has enjoyed four hugely successful events in New Zealand, with spectacular racing and incredible energy on-shore," he said. "We're especially grateful to the New Zealand fans, who have shown up in force year after year."
The cancellation is a significant blow to the local marine and tourism industries, which had been banking on the influx of visitors and international media attention the event generates. It also raises questions about Auckland's capacity to attract premier global sporting events, similar to debates surrounding large-scale demolition and rebuilding projects for public spaces, as seen in other international cities exploring how to unlock new potential from old structures.
Hope for a future return
Despite the current setback, all parties have left the door open for future races. Minister Upston noted the government remains willing to consider investing in SailGP events for 2028 and 2029, and would even revisit the 2027 event "if timing allows," though what that would entail remains unclear.
This sentiment was echoed by Sir Russell, who confirmed that dialogue continues with the New Zealand Government and Auckland Council. "We remain in dialogue. as we look ahead to a possible return from 2028 and beyond," he stated.
For now, sailing enthusiasts will have to wait and see if negotiations can pave the way for the high-octane F50 catamarans to once again race on the Waitematā, a sight many had eagerly anticipated for 2027.
