New Zealand will makes it's debut on the Sail GP calendar this time next year.
Sail GP competition in Italy Photo: Sail GP
The series has confirmed Lyttleton will host the maiden event as part of season three on March 18 and 19, 2023.
It was set to be the first event of a four-year deal for Sail GP in New Zealand, with hosting duties to alternate between Christchurch and Auckland.
The country's place on the season three calendar was confirmed in December, several months after an event scheduled for Lyttleton in January this year had to be cancelled because the series was unable to secure MIQ exemptions for visiting crews.
"Entering season three of Sail GP and our second year in the league knowing we'll be racing on home waters in March adds an extra element of excitement and determination," New Zealand Sail GP Team co-CEO Blair Tuke said.
"New Zealanders have always been keen sailors and supporters, and we can't wait to have that Kiwi energy and hype right there on the water's edge."
The race course for the maiden New Zealand event had also been confirmed.
The catamarans are expected to reach speeds of almost 100 km/h as they fly within metres of the shoreline by Naval Point.
Sail GP head of New Zealand events Karl Budge said they wanted to re-imagine how Kiwis were entertained by sailing over the next four years.
"With what we have planned, I am sure this will become the summer event in New Zealand.
"Heading into its third season, SailGP is going from strength to strength commercially and is recognised as the fastest growing sports league in the world."
Tickets to the New Zealand event would go on sale later this year.
