Triathlons set to generate millions

Auckland is set to host two major triathlons in the next 12 months. File photo / NZ Herald

More than $7 million is expected to be pumped into Auckland, with the city set to host two major triathlons in the next 12 months.

Dubbed by organisers as "most significant events post the Rugby World Cup", they today rolled out plans for the events that are set to attract 7500 competitors aged 16 to 80.

In a surprise announcement, Kiwi triathlon legend Hamish Carter also revealed he would end a six-year absence from the sport by competing in the first of the events - the ITU World Cup on November 20.

The Dextro Energy ITU Triathlon World Champs Series Grand Finale will follow next October.

The events would "light up the waterfront" and showcase Auckland as a world-class host of international events, said Triathlon World Championships chief executive David Beeche.

"I can't stress enough however how important this is in the current economic climate and in Rugby World Cup year. Hosting major international sporting events bring visitors and economic activity to our city, and they attract global television audiences that increase our appeal as a tourist destination," he said.

International competitors, along with their friends and family were expected to boost the economy by at least $7m as part of the events, particularly through spending on accommodation, eating out and travel, said Mr Beeche.

"It's a conservative base and realistic."

Structures set up for the RWC would also be used in the events including, The Cloud for ceremonial activities, registrations and VIP functions and The Shed as an athletes' lounge, and for drug-testing and as a medical centre.

The courses will take in key features of the city such as the Sky Tower, the Town Hall, Queen's Wharf and Viaduct.

In a world first, a 60m pontoon made of Lego-style blocks would be installed at Queen's Wharf as a entry point for competitors in the swim.

Carter, 40, was delighted to be taking part in the event, which he said helped to inspire the next generation of athletes, but admitted he was nervous about competing in his first triathlon since retiring six years ago.

"It's really exciting. I've frantically started doing a little bit of training - I'll be relying on base training and muscle memory," he said.

He will be competing in the 40-44 age group section of the World Cup and aimed to simply finish the course and enjoy the experience.

As part of the November triathlon, there would be road closures from 4am-7pm as the central city went into lock-down mode to keep competitors and spectators safe, said Mr Beeche.

People coming into the city were encouraged to leave their cars at home and take advantage of public transport, with additional services operating throughout the events.

Affected businesses had been advised of the road closures and further reminders about closures and extra transport services would continue until the start of the events. To find out more go to www.maxx.co.nz

Real estate company Barfoot & Thompson was today announced as the major sponsor of the two events.