A FanZone in Wellington's Civic Square screening the ICC Cricket World Cup semi-final between New Zealand and South Africa in 2015. Picture / NZ Herald
Far North communities are being invited to "own the zone", and fundraise for their own projects by hosting official America's Cup FanZones in March next year. The offer is open to any organisation that can provide a venue with a minimum capacity of 100 people, fast and reliable internet connectivity
and a big television screen to display America's Cup races.
Far North District Council general manager strategic planning and policy, Darrell Sargent, said the offer was a golden opportunity for community groups to promote and fundraise for their own projects.
"We anticipate that schools, town halls, sailing clubs and marae could become FanZone venues. It is entirely up to community organisations how many races they show and how they leverage the international event to benefit their projects," he said.
America's Cup races will start on March 6 next year, and will continue every second day until the trophy is won.
Communities and organisations only have until Friday to nominate themselves as a potential FanZone. Along with the other criteria, they will need adequate parking, and must be accessible and welcoming, and able to attract local sponsors. They do not need to have every detail confirmed before submitting a nomination, however.
