Spark wanted to inspire and excite the public about the America’s Cup, educating them about the ways that technology has revolutionized the boats and shining a light on STEM subjects, to inspire a new generation of kids while also giving Aucklanders a preview of the 5G network soon to launch in the region.

The Spark 5G Race Zone concept was born out of this challenge; an immersive interactive event space inside the Emirates Team New Zealand base showcasing a convergence of sailing and technology. Seven unique zones were concepted, each an example of ways Spark 5G was used in the team’s boat development, training or race preparations. From the Wind Tunnel that allows people to walk through and interact with a real time wind model visualization, to an immersive 360 experience riding along on a Te Aihe test run, to piloting the actual simulator that Emirates Team New Zealand uses, never before has the public had the chance to get so involved in the technology that goes into contesting the America’s Cup.