About 3000 boats are expected to converge on the Hauraki Gulf during upcoming Prada Cup race days, starting this weekend, Maritime New Zealand says.
Photo: 123RF
From tomorrow, Luna Rossa, Team UK and American Magic will face off for the right to challenge Team New Zealand for the America's Cup.
Maritime New Zealand said staff would be at Auckland boat ramps and marinas tomorrow, Saturday and Sunday to make sure boaties had life jackets and communication devices on board.
Captains may also be asked if they know the rules around appropriate speeds and whether they have checked the weather conditions.
Maritime New Zealand compliance manager Neil Rowarth said infringement notices would be issued if necessary, but the main aim was to ensure people watching the racing from their boats knew the rules.
The challenger series - which involves the British team as well as Italy's Luna Rossa and American Magic - runs until 22 February.
The winner will then face defenders Team NZ from 6 March.