The 36th America's Cup will begin with the first two races next Wednesday after the New Zealand government announced Auckland's strict coronavirus lockdown would be lifted on Sunday morning.

The first four races in the contest for the oldest trophy in international sport were originally scheduled for Saturday and Sunday in Auckland but postponed after the New Zealand government last weekend announced a snap lockdown on the city.

"The highly anticipated Race 1 of the 36th America's Cup Match will start ... on Wednesday 10th March after the government announced a reduction in alert levels today," race organisers said in a statement.

The best-of-13 race series between holders Team New Zealand and Italian challengers Luna Rossa - co-helmed by Australian sailing superstar Jimmy Spithill - will continue after Wednesday with two races on Friday, March 12 and every day thereafter until a winner is decided.