The Swiss billionaire owner of Alinghi was accused of scuttling plans to have a Maori waka perform ceremonial duties at the America's Cup, including escorting NZL92 out of the village before its duel with Alinghi. But Team New Zealand cleared up confusion created by some reports in New Zealand yesterday by saying Bertarelli had nothing to do with the decision.
Managing director of Emirates Team New Zealand, Grant Dalton, said Toi Maori, Tourism New Zealand and the team had discussed the return of the waka, which appeared during the challenger series in April. Though the move had been a hit then it was decided not to proceed because of logistical difficulties.
Managing director of Emirates Team New Zealand, Grant Dalton, said Toi Maori, Tourism New Zealand and the team had discussed the return of the waka, which appeared during the challenger series in April. Though the move had been a hit then it was decided not to proceed because of logistical difficulties.
