The Queenstown Primary School pupil was in the crowd as thousands turned out to welcome the America’s Cup and 28 Team New Zealand members who won it.
William was standing in the Octagon dressed as helmsman Peter Burling, sporting a helmet with attached microphone, and wearing his ice hockey gear under a shirt with a New Zealand flag on the front and "BURLING" written on the back.
He had just finished telling the Otago Daily Times about his outfit when he was spotted by one of the team and quickly hoisted on to the back of a utility with none other than the real Peter Burling and the cup itself, to ride triumphant through the Octagon.
William said his father spray-painted his helmet in the requisite colours for an outfit developed for international day at his school.
Asked if he was keen to be a Team New Zealand yachtsman he responded: "Yeah, I could be."
He may now have somewhat more drive a to reach that goal, following his brief starring role enjoying the accolades of an enthusiastic crowd.
