New Zealand’s world-class marine sector has received another endorsement with confirmation the next class of America’s Cup catamarans will be built in Auckland.
Warkworth boat builders Core Builders Composites has been awarded the contract to build the new AC45 catamaran to be used in the America’s Cup World Series starting later this year.
Associate Tourism Minister Jonathan Coleman was quoted in a press release saying: “The contract to build up to 10 catamarans is another accolade for the New Zealand marine industry. It boasts some of the best designers and technicians in the game and the technology is cutting edge.”
The New Zealand marine industry is worth around NZD$1.7 billion and employs over 10,000 people. The sector is aiming to grow to $2.6 billion by 2015 and this contract will help attract further business.
.The NZ government, through Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) has supported the industry at all the major yacht shows internationally and provided support to the industry body and individual industry members in improving capability, productivity and marketing amongst firms.
‘’The Northland region also obtained $2 million through NZTE’s Major Regional Initiative fund, to develop their industry.
Over the past three decades the America’s Cup has helped put New Zealand on the international stage. It generated greater awareness of New Zealand as a tourism destination and a place to do business.
The America’s World Series is the preliminary racing series for the America’s Cup in San Francisco in 2013.
