Thousands of spectators are likely to arrive on Auckland's shores for SailGP

The sailing event makes it debut in the City of Sails on January 18 and 19.

Organisers withdrew their bid to host the race again in Christchurch's Lyttelton Harbour - the decision came after an event in March was impacted by marine life.

Tataki Auckland Unlimited chief executive, Nick Hill, says it's expected to boost their GDP by at least five-million-dollars.

He says Auckland was made for events like this and they're expecting about 20-thousand people over the weekend.

Tickets go on sale today.