The group includes Rio 2016 gold medallists Peter Burling and Blair Tuke who will look to defend their Olympic crown in the 49er.

Burling and Tuke led the New Zealand team at the Opening Ceremony in Brazil and have won the World Championship six times.

They also won silver at the London 2012 Olympics and the Tokyo 2020 test event last year.

Also named for New Zealand are Rio 2016 49erFX silver medallists Alex Maloney and Molly Meech, while Molly's brother Sam will compete in the laser and look to improve his bronze medal from Brazil.

Nacra 17 sailors Micah Wilkinson and Erica Dawson will make their Olympic debuts.

All of the sailors were announced at the Royal Akarana Yacht Club in Auckland today and received New Zealand's symbol the silver fern.

"Well done on your selection to the New Zealand team," said New Zealand Olympic Committee chief executive Kereyn Smith.

"A huge amount of work has gone into getting you to this point.

"There's a lot more work to do between now and Games-time so we wish you the best with the rest of your preparation and we can't wait to watch you compete in Japan and earn the fern."

Sam Meech added: "We do so many regattas but the Olympic Games is special because it feels like you're sailing for more than yourself.

"I didn't really know what to expect in Rio. 

"I tried talking to a number of people to get an idea of what it was going to be like but you never really know until you experience it.

"There's so much going on outside of the sailing and I can't wait to experience it again."