You don't have to like sailing to be a proud Kiwi today, says Chris Dickson

Sailing legend Chris Dickson says once again New Zealand has taken on the world and won. Photo / File

This morning's triumph on the water was a proud moment for Kiwis.

Ex-America's Cup skipper Chris Dickson told Rachel Smalley on NewstalkZB this morning it doesn't matter whether you sail or even like the America's Cup.

"It's character defining. It says again, we Kiwis from the bottom of the South Pacific Ocean can take on the world, against the odds, and we can succeed.

"It's a proud moment for me, for many of us as Kiwis. Doesn't matter whether you sail or like America's Cup."

Plans are already afoot for a ticker tape parade.

Officials in Auckland will meet police this morning to discuss the exact time, day and route.

It's likely to be Thursday - and Auckland's tourism and economic agency Ateed wants a combination of something on land and on water.

Dickson told Smalley New Zealand should celebrate in style.

"Thirty years ago I was part of a ticker-tape parade up Queen St after our first New Zealand America's Cup challenge. It wasn't successful but it was the beginning of a great story, I guess."

And Dickson is reminding people Team New Zealand skipper Glen Ashby is an Aussie.

He reckons we should give him a New Zealand passport.