Cup back again, but only for a visit

John Banks says having the America's Cup back in Auckland is a treat for the the people of Auckland. Photo /Steven McNicholl

Seven years after leaving our shores, New Zealand has the America's Cup trophy back in its possession - but only for three days.

The Auld Mug is on public display at the Voyager, New Zealand Maritime Museum, before going home to San Francisco's Golden Gate Yacht Club.

The chief executive of BMW Oracle, expatriate Kiwi Russell Coutts, oversaw the return of the cup a month after the syndicate won it in Valencia, Spain.

Auckland City Mayor John Banks yesterday described the visit as a "wonderful treat for the people of Auckland".

"It is a privilege to have the cup here. For nearly eight years it was housed in the trophy room at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron and now after seven years away it is back for the citizens of Auckland to view again.

"My relationship with the Auld Mug has had its ups and downs, having been the Minister of Sport when Team New Zealand first won it back in 1995 and the mayor of Auckland when it was lost in 2003. It is wonderful though to see it again in Auckland.

"Having the oldest trophy in yachting on display here is a tribute to the Louis Vuitton Trophy and the showcase match racing taking place on our Waitemata Harbour at the moment. May it return again soon, hopefully for a longer stay."