After years of planning and months of preparation, the boats are almost here.

The front-runners of the Volvo Ocean Race are now expected to arrive for their Auckland Stopover tomorrow afternoon.

Event manager Hannah Lyle says there's been lots of legwork making the stopover happen.

"We've been working with lots of different stakeholders across Auckland, trying to get as much of the community involved as possible."

John Key will cut the ribbon on the two-week Auckland Stopover village at the Viaduct Basin this morning.

It will play host to the 65s for the next two weeks.

Event manager Hannah Lyle says it will be lights, camera, action on the village's main stage.

"There will be lots of children's activities, Tri Sailing, Give it a Go and the sailing academy from Volvo Ocean Race."

The first boats are now expected to arrive tomorrow afternoon.