SailGP is making its way back to Christchurch next year.
The Garden City will reprise its role as hosts of the NZ leg of the new global sailing competition, stepping up as a late replacement for its original destination of Auckland.
Racing was scheduled to play out on the waters of the Waitematā Harbour, but a breakdown in spectator viewing locations led to SailGP pulling out last month.
Christchurch's Lyttleton Harbour will again be the epicentre of the sailing action, keeping the same scheduled dates of the weekend of March 23-24.
Earlier this year, thousands of spectators turned out for the competition's maiden event in Aotearoa, providing a significant injection for the Christchurch region.
SailGP chief executive and Kiwi sailing great Sir Russell Coutts says he's delighted to return for another installment of racing in Ōtautahi.
"Christchurch has proven to be one of our very best events to date - with fantastic racing, thousands of fans and spectacular scenery in a natural amphitheatre," Coutts said.
Over 22,000 fans flocked to Naval Point for the racing in March and increased seating should see that number grow when it returns in 2024.
"This is a perfect venue for the stadium-style, inner-harbour racing SailGP is known for around the world and we can't wait to bring more fans closer to the action with additional grandstands planned for next year's event," added Sir Russell.
The last NZ event saw Canada edge hosts Peter Burling and his crew in a nail-biting podium race.
"The team is incredibly excited to have Christchurch confirmed as our home event for this season," said New Zealand helmsman Peter Burling.
"We had an awesome competition down there earlier this year, and to see the way the NZ fans got behind the event was super exciting and made us incredibly proud.
"It's always special to race at home... last time was the best event we've had in SailGP to date.
"We're super excited to do it all over again."
New Zealand currently sit third in the overall competition standings for season four, after their dramatic win in Dubai on Monday (NZ time).
"It's fantastic to welcome SailGP back to the city in 2024 for this bonus season," said Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger.
"This just proves that Christchurch is increasingly seen as the sports and events capital of New Zealand.
"This year's event was brilliant, and it was great that Whakaraupō Lyttelton Harbour was seen around the world in all its glory.
"I'm sure people will get right behind this event once again."
Tickets for the event go on sale Thursday, December 14.
Tune into Three or ThreeNow for live, free-to-air coverage of all 12 SailGP events this season.
