During the regatta many Kiwis were getting to work late after watching the morning action live on Television One, and 92 per cent of New Zealand's population tuned into the blanket coverage of the final race and the extended celebrations that followed.
New Zealand celebrated for days, with 250,000 people lining Queen St for the victory parade, at a time when Auckland's population was barely one million.
But how does that 'moment' compare with Oracle Team USA's dramatic comeback in 2013, Team New Zealand's 2017 pitchpole or the 'Summer of Kiwi Magic' in 1987?
On the eve of the 36th edition of the Cup match, the Ineos Team UK skipper hopes the next battle for the Auld Mug – wherever it is – can have a different structure in place.
Coming tomorrow
Michael Burgess talks to Peter Burling ahead of his quest to lead Team New Zealand to back-to-back Cup triumphs.
Beyond the Cup
American Magic helmsman Dean Barker and AUT Sailing Professor Mark Orams join NZME reporter Matt Brown to preview the America's Cup showdown between Team NZ and Luna Rossa. Watch the video in your player above.
