| AUCKLAND, NZL-(31-1-2003) Alinghi and Team New Zealand have agreed to a system of sharing space to enable both crews to practice without interference out on the Hauraki Gulf.
The agreement was worked out with the Auckland Maritime Police unit following a series of confrontations on the water between the two syndicates.
Last week, tensions rose when Alinghi received an instant fine of $10,000 after one of its chase boats entered the Team New Zealand practice area in violation of the agreement.
Since then, however, there have been no further incidents, according to Senior Sergeant Martin Paget, head of the police unit. “Everybody has been really good. Both sides now have a very clear understanding of everybody’s needs. We have had no problems at all and we do appreciate the level of co-operation we are receiving.”
According to the agreement, Team New Zealand and Alinghi have first choice of their practice area on a rotating basis. Team New Zealand has first choice on even dates and Alinghi on odd dates.
Course area details selected have to be passed by e-mail to the AucklandHarbour, the New Zealand Police and the syndicates by 9am every day.
According to the arrangement, any incidents that may occur between the syndicates and syndicate support craft must be documented and reported immediately to the Maritime Safety Authority, the New Zealand Police and the Harbourmaster.
The agreement is in effect from 27 January to the start of the America’s Cup Match on 15 February.
Senior Sergeant Paget said he trusted the level of co-operation would continue and said the next major challenge for the police unit would be the opening race of the America’s Cup Match.
“We anticipate a large number of people going out onto the Gulf to watch the racing,” he said. “The first day will be very interesting.”
Senior Sergeant Paget said the police would have up to 14 patrol vessels out on the course area. “Our prime task to ensure the event can be run without interference and that everybody stays safe,” he said.
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