A tough day for Christchurch sailing fans, who've watched SailGP in Lyttelton for the past two years.

It's been confirmed the event is leaving the city.

ChristchurchNZ Destination and Attraction General Manager, Loren Aberhart, says the main issue was the Marine Protection Act.

"It has restricted the ability to race in Lyttelton, because it's a marine mammal sanctuary."

SailGP says it's working to finalise next year's destinations through discussions with New Zealand and international partners.

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