"I have always had the utmost respect for Helen and everything she has achieved and stood for," chief executive Grant Dalton says.

"She has been a staunch supporter of Emirates Team New Zealand for a long time, and certainly, since I joined the team in 2003 her ongoing support through its highs and lows has been a motivating factor for me personally."

Ms Clark was Prime Minister of New Zealand when the Government became an official sponsor of the team.

She says she's "thrilled" at the announcement ahead of the America's Cup in Auckland.

"We are in to win the Cup again, and, as in the past, that will require a huge mobilisation of goodwill and support at home and abroad," she says.

"Emirates Team New Zealand are tremendous ambassadors for New Zealand: as fair players and as a dedicated and resilient team, they embody values we hold dear in our country.

"As well, Emirates Team New Zealand's efforts and profile build interest in New Zealand as a destination, an innovator and designer, an exporter of technology, and a good country with which do business.

"I am happy to lend my voice and good offices to that effort."

Newshub.