While the defenders and four challengers have been training in the Cup waters off Bermuda for months, the two-time Cup winners from New Zealand have so far completed their training and test blocks in their home waters off Auckland, the last one at the end of March. But now sporting director Grant Dalton's team and the new America's Cup class catamaran named "Aotearoa" (Land of the Long White Cloud) are on their way to Bermuda. There, they will complete the quintet of challengers that will be fighting for the right to challenge the American defending champions in the 35th America's Cup duel from 26 May, first in the qualifiers and then in the play-offs for the best four teams.
The time-lapse video documents the loading of the New Zealand Cup catamaran at Auckland airport
There has been much discussion about the New Zealanders' lone preparation. On the one hand, the Kiwis may lack local and territorial experience in the Cup waters. Also, unlike other teams, they have not been able - and do not want - to test themselves against the competition. On the other hand, they have been able to prepare for the 35th America's Cup in an undisturbed, cost-effective and focussed manner.
An Emirates SkyCargo 747 is currently flying the dismantled Cup boat from Auckland to Hamilton. The ACC catamaran, two wing sails, a support boat, foils, fitness equipment, electronics, hydraulics and other accessories weighing around 42 tonnes disappeared into the belly of the aircraft. The New Zealand base camp is located in the heart of the America's Cup centre at the Royal Naval Dockyards. The New Zealanders will quickly set up there in the coming days and start training on site.
Tatjana Pokorny
Sports reporter
