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

The event's leaving the city.

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

She says that interfered with the race because Lyttleton is a marine mammal sanctuary.

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