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First Team NZ yacht delivered

Cookson also built Team New Zealand's boats for the last America's Cup

AUCKLAND, New Zealand -- One of the yachts to defend the America's Cup has been delivered to Team New Zealand.

The yacht, NZL81, was transported 7km by truck from boatbuilder Cookson Boats across Auckland's Harbour Bridge to the syndicate's base at Viaduct Basin.

"I have a feeling about this boat -- I think it's a good one," Team New Zealand shore boss Roy Mason said on the team's official web site.

The trip was made at night to avoid traffic and onlookers. The hull was under protective silver covers.

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Mason and Cup veteran Barr McKay oversaw the moving operation. Team New Zealand members had worked with Cookson to create the hull over four months.

As is tradition, most of the team, including Team New Zealand head Tom Schnackenberg and skipper Dean Barker, pitched in to give the boat her final long-board sanding the day before she left the yard.

The hull will now be completed by Team New Zealand at their base before the yacht is launched later in August.

The final touches include securing fittings and appendages and getting the boat officially measured.

Work is continuing on the second boat, NZL82, which should be finished within the next two months.

The Louis Vuitton Cup begins in October, with the winner going on to challenge Team New Zealand for the America's Cup in February.