More than $7 million is expected to be pumped into Auckland, with the city set to host two big triathlons in the next 12 months.
Dubbed by organisers as the "most significant events post the Rugby World Cup", they released plans yesterday for the events which will attract 7500 competitors aged 16 to 80.
Kiwi triathlon legend Hamish Carter said 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, sponsored by real estate company Barfoot & Thompson, 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 with their friends and family were expected to boost the economy by at least $7 million as part of the events, particularly through spending on accommodation, food 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 ceremonies, registrations and VIP functions, and Shed 10 as an athletes' lounge, as a medical centre, and for drug-testing.
The courses will take in key features of the city such as the Sky Tower, the Town Hall, Queens Wharf and Viaduct.
A 60m pontoon made of Lego-style blocks would be installed at Queens Wharf as an entry point for competitors in the swim.
Carter, 40, was delighted to be taking part in the event, which he said would help to inspire the next generation of athletes, but admitted he was nervous about competing in his first triathlon for six years.
"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, roads would be closed from 4am to 7pm in the central city 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.APNZ