Mayor welcomes Italian tall ship

Auckland Mayor John Banks is encouraging families to join the festivities on Sunday and welcome the Italian Navy’s tall sailing ship Amerigo Vespucci.

This is the first time the 101-metre long naval training ship has sailed to the South Pacific. It is described by some as the most beautiful tall ship in the world.

“Its arrival will be a great spectacle on the Waitemata Harbour. Auckland boaties have a chance to join the welcoming flotilla and there are plenty of opportunities for the wider public to be involved,” he said.

The Mayor and Auckland City councillors will formally welcome the crew of the Amerigo Vespucci at a public ceremony upon docking at the western side of Princes Wharf at 11am. Also present will be the Minister for the America’s Cup Hon Trevor Mallard, Italian Ambassador Dr Roberto Palmieri, and Sir Hugh Kawharu, Ngati Whatua o Orakei.

Various forms of family entertainment will be on hand from 10.00am.

“We welcome the significant Italian presence in Auckland. The crew of 436 will add much to our city’s heart and soul over the next five months. This visit is a unique opportunity for both New Zealand and Italy to strengthen the bonds that were created at the last Cup when Prada won the Louis Vuitton.

“This time around Italy of course has two challenging syndicates. I am sure both syndicates appreciate such large-scale naval support. The presence of this beautiful tall ship also signals Italy’s strong ties with New Zealand,” Mr Banks said.

The public will have the opportunity to go aboard the Amerigo Vespucci over the summer months during a series of open days.

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