Emirates Team New Zealand puts Picton on its tour map

Emirates Team New Zealand puts Picton on its tour map

An early evening event on the Picton foreshore is being arranged to host members of Emirates Team New Zealand and the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron who are bringing the ‘Auld Mug’ south so people can share in the celebration of the America’s Cup victory.

The Queen Charlotte Yacht Club and Picton Smart & Connected are organising a street parade and a formal welcome at the London Quay/Wellington Street recreation area. The parade will include representation by local sports clubs, schools and businesses that have an association with Emirates Team New Zealand.

The event will take place from 6pm to 8pm on Thursday 12 October.

Local children will perform kapa haka and there will be other entertainment for the large crowd that is anticipated. It will be school holidays and families are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy the extended summer evening on the Picton foreshore reserve.

It is expected that Picton’s own sporting hero Joseph Sullivan will be among the team members bringing the trophy to Picton.

“We’re really excited to be involved in bringing the America’s Cup to Picton. The Sounds has to be one of the most beautiful places in the world to sail with world class facilities and scenery. We’re hoping the next generation will be inspired to get out on the water,” says Port Marlborough’s Manager Business Delivery Rhys Welbourn.

Marlborough Mayor John Leggett says Picton is hosting the parade and everyone in Marlborough is invited.

“It should be a great night and I hope that people from all over the district will be there to enjoy the moment. We’ll also be making sure that Nelson and Tasman people get the message that we welcome them to join us here in Picton to see the Cup.”

After Picton, the team will be heading directly to the West Coast with the trophy.

A large sail, donated by local sail maker Kent Luxton, will be taken around Marlborough schools by the Queen Charlotte Yacht Club and the Waikawa Boating Club during the coming month so that children can sign it before it is presented to the team at the welcome ceremony.

The event is proudly supported by Marlborough District Council, Port Marlborough and Marlborough Sounds Marinas.

Keep an eye on the @ETNZ2Picton Facebook page for more details in the coming weeks.

ENDS

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