Tuesday, December 10, 2024

NZ considers bid to host Commonwealth Games

Minister for Sport and Recreation, Grant Robertson, says a recent change to the Commonwealth Games hosting model has made a potential games bid more attractive for New Zealand.

Mr Robertson said the Government was welcoming interest by the New Zealand Olympic Committee in hosting the 2034 Commonwealth Games.

“New Zealand has a proud record of hosting world-class international events like Cricket World Cups, Rugby World Cups, World Masters Games, mega sailing regattas and this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup,” said Mr Robertson.

He said the recent change to the hosting model, including options to propose nationwide, regional, or co-host models, made a potential bid more feasible for Aotearoa.

“It’s early days for this process, and at this stage all that has been agreed is an indication of interest from New Zealand. Further work needs to be done to understand New Zealand’s position before considering whether to make a formal bid for the 2034 games, but I am excited at the prospect and potential for us to host it here.”

“Last year’s Commonwealth Games really highlighted for me how important the event is for our sportspeople to get a chance to compete at a multi-discipline international event, outside of the Olympics. Kiwis really got behind our athletes and it was a fantastic event both in Birmingham but also for people back here watching and supporting our team,” Minister Robertson said.

He said he has consulted the National Party about the process for indicating interest in hosting the 2034 Games.

“I am pleased we have cross-party support for this approach. The next steps will be for the New Zealand Olympic Committee to assess support for a New Zealand bid, along with consideration of the country’s capability to host the event,” Mr Robertson said.

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