With two key members of Team New Zealand's sailing team yet to commit, the America's Cup defender has moved to shore up their afterguard

2012 Olympic 49er champion Australian Nathan Outteridge has joined the syndicate.

He's eligible under the strict new nationality rules that will be in place for AC37 due to the fact he lives in Auckland.

The 35 year old worked as a commentator for AC36 in Auckland.

With Peter Burling and Blair Tuke off contract in December and not yet committed to another campaign, Outteridge's signing is a major boost to a team.