After a long and at times uncertain lead up, the America's Cup World Series regatta starts this week with four teams competing for their chance to race for sailing's most coveted trophy.
Today teams and their families gathered at Auckland's Viaduct Harbour for a dawn ceremony followed by the official opening of the race village.
Several hundred people gathered for the official opening with Auckland's clear blue sky and sparkling harbour as the backdrop.
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei blessed the village and welcomed the overseas challengers of the cup with a pōwhiri and karakia.
Three challenger teams are taking part as well as defender Team New Zealand, with racing due to begin on Thursday.