Prime Minister Bill English backs Government's decision not back Team New Zealand. Photo / Andrew Warner
Prime Minister Bill English says his Government has no regrets about its decision not to fund Team NZ's ultimately successful America's Cup bid.
"It just shows that they've been able to do it without extensive government support," he said this morning.
"I have to say, there was a good deal
of public scepticism and government scepticism at that time [2013] which is why it is so good to see them with this sheer brilliance winning back the support of the public for what is a fantastic yachting tradition in New Zealand."
Speaking to reporters at Parliament, he reserved special praise for Team NZ boss Grant Dalton and the group of sponsors who "kept the faith in the dark days after the last defeat" in San Francisco.
"It's great to see them getting the satisfaction of victory."
