Picton’s Big Welcome for the Auld Mug – on and off the water!

An early evening event on the Picton foreshore is being arranged to host members of Emirates Team New Zealand who are bringing the ‘Auld Mug’ south so people can share in the celebration of the America’s cup victory. Picton’s own sporting hero Joseph Sullivan will be among the team members bringing the trophy to Picton.

Marlborough Sounds Marinas would like to invite recreational boaties in Marlborough to join the festivities by taking part in a flotilla to welcome the team as they arrive on the Interislander. All vessels should report to the visitors wharf adjacent to the Town Wharf and Foreshore, for a safety briefing by the Harbourmaster and Coastguard around 5pm – with the intention of heading out and arriving at wedge point (Map pictured) by 530pm to welcome the ferry in.

There is free berthage available to those taking part in the flotilla, on the Visitor’s wharf area between 5 & 8pm while the event is underway through High Street and the Waterfront area on London Quay. Pre-register with us so that we can keep tabs on the number of boats attending by emailing us at service@msmarinas.co.nz

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

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.

Port Marlborough have proudly sponsored the welcome event in Picton, and business delivery manager Rhys Welbourn commented “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.”

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”

A large sail, donated by local sail maker Kent Luxton, has been 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 sponsored by Port Marlborough and MDC.