Tauranga is preparing to welcome thousands of young athletes and their supporters from across Aotearoa and the Pacific for the biggest-ever Zespri AIMS Games, which is set to take place from 30 August to 5 September.
More than 14,000 athletes representing 431 schools will compete across 27 sporting codes at 33 venues across the city.
Now in its 21st year, the tournament remains proudly rooted in Tauranga, with the majority of services and suppliers sourced locally. Delivered using existing public sport and recreation facilities, the event showcases the strength of community collaboration and the city’s capacity to host world-class events.
Mayor, Mahé Drysdale says the city is ready to extend a warm welcome to everyone from near and far who will be attending.
“Every athlete, coach, teacher, and whānau member who comes to Tauranga is part of something truly special. We want them to feel the manaakitanga of our city – to enjoy the competition, and to leave with memories that last a lifetime,” he says.
The Zespri AIMS Games are delivered by the AIMS Games Trust – a partnership between the four-founding intermediate schools: Ōtūmoetai, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga, and Te Puke, alongside Zespri, Tauranga City Council, and Sport Bay of Plenty.
Last year’s tournament generated $8.78 million for Tauranga’s economy. There were over 26,000 unique attendees, generating 79,201 visitor nights. Residents felt the benefits, with 91% of those surveyed saying the Games increased their pride in the city and 80% agreeing it made Tauranga a more enjoyable place to live.
The Zespri AIMS Games celebrate diversity and give young people from all backgrounds the chance to compete on a national stage. The Positive Vibes Only campaign, in partnership with Sport Bay of Plenty and Sport Waikato, will again be in full swing this year – promoting positive sideline behaviour and supporting a fun, safe experience for all.
Tournament director, Kelly Schischka, explains that the ongoing growth and success of the Zespri AIMS Games comes down to the focus on the athletes and their experience.
“One of the reasons the Zespri AIMS Games continues to grow and thrive is that we work incredibly hard to be relevant to our athletes – whether it’s through the new codes and formats we introduce, or by being at the cutting edge of promoting amazingly positive sideline behaviour.”
“Our entire focus and kaupapa is about giving our athletes an incredibly wholesome experience – centred around competition, teamwork, camaraderie and sportsmanship – which will give them memories to last a lifetime.”
In what is a huge collective effort, teams within Tauranga City Council have been working behind the scenes for months to ensure the city is ready to host. From preparing fields and facilities to coordinating transport, sustainability initiatives, and community partnerships – Council teams, alongside sporting clubs and local organisations, have all played their part.
Mayor Drysdale says that the teamwork on display is something to be proud of.
“Delivering an event of this magnitude is a citywide effort. The AIMS Games Trust, Council staff, local clubs, and volunteers all play an enormous role in bringing it together. I’m incredibly proud of their mahi and of the way Tauranga unites to host an event that shines a light on the talent of our rangatahi and the welcoming spirit our city is known for.”
Zespri AIMS Games events are open to the community:
Hip Hop Performance Events
Saturday, 30 August, 5pm – Mercury Baypark
Watch 44 of the country’s best intermediate-aged Hip Hop crews battle it out in a high-energy showcase. Tickets are available for purchase via the Zespri AIMS Games website.
Waterfront Movie – ‘Eddie the Eagle’ & ‘Cool Runnings’
Tuesday, 2 September – Northern Waterfront, The Strand
Head along to the Tauranga waterfront for a sports-focused Night Owl Cinema double-header.
Netball Under Lights
Wednesday, 3 September, 4pm – 8pm – Tauranga Netball Centre, Blake Park
Come along to support 157 Netball teams, enjoy roving entertainers, face painting, food vendors, a What’s on Tauranga photobooth, and the Zespri AIMS Games merchandise pop-up shop.
Rip Rugby Finals Under Lights
Thursday 4 September 2025, 4pm – 7:30pm – Bay Oval, Blake Park
See a record-breaking 75 Rip Rugby teams compete under lights at Bay Oval International Cricket Ground, with off-field entertainment, a What’s on Tauranga photobooth, food vendors, and family activities.
More event information here.
