Team NZ confirm America's Cup challenge

Emirates Team New Zealand chief Grant Dalton. Photo / Abner Kingman.

The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron has lodged a challenge for the 35th America's Cup.

Outgoing commodore Steve Burrett announced on Thursday night at the Squadron's annual meeting that the challenge would go ahead.

The Squadron will be represented by Team New Zealand.

Challengers had until 7pm on Saturday night (NZT) to notify the defending yacht club, San Francisco's Golden Gate Yacht Club, of their intentions.

The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron has been involved with all but one New Zealand America's Cup campaign since 1987, winning at San Diego in 1995 and successfully defending the prized trophy at Auckland in 2000.

"New Zealand has a distinguished history in the America's Cup and we expect Emirates Team New Zealand will once again make New Zealand proud, just as it has done many times in the past," Burrett said.

"We wish the team well and we look forward to contributing to the success of the 35th America's Cup."

Team New Zealand boss Grant Dalton said it was pleasing to be able to challenge for the America's Cup again.

"This is the official start of a long, hard journey. We do not underestimate the challenges ahead," he said.

"We look forward to working with the other teams to create a great event."