NZ makes initial move to host 2034 Commonwealth Games

Sir John Walker competing in the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland.
Photo: Photosport

New Zealand has taken a tentative step in bidding to host the 2034 Commonwealth Games.

The New Zealand Olympic Committee has advised the Commonwealth Games Federation its interested in hosting the Games following the implementation of a new hosting model which allows for more flexible and innovative Games.

Under the new model a potential New Zealand Games would see the sports programme tailored to local interests, with competition to take place across multiple cities and regions.

New Zealand last hosted the Commonwealth Games in Auckland in 1990 and twice prior to that – Christchurch in 1974 and in 1950 in Auckland.

“We want to be very clear this concept is about a nation not a city, and we’d be looking to develop a Games that would help achieve nation-wide goals and engage young and diverse communities in sport,” said NZOC chief executive Nicki Nicol.

NZOC chief executive Nicki Nicol.
Photo: Photosport

“While this is an exciting step, we acknowledge that discussions are in the early stages and there is a significant process to go through before we are ready to confirm a bid.”

Ms Nichol said the NZOC will now look to partner with the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and New Zealand Government agencies to further assess how a future Games can add value to the future of Aotearoa, including supporting national goals for economic and infrastructure development, wellbeing, community development, and promoting and celebrating our unique culture.

With the focus on 2030 as a priority for the CGF, New Zealand has a significant runway to allow time to create an innovative and bold proposal for a potential 2034 bid, including undertaking a formal feasibility study.

Sports minister Grant Robertson said “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… it was a fantastic event both in Birmingham but also for people back here watching and supporting our team,” said Robertson.

“Further work needs to be done to understand New Zealand’s position before considering whether to make a formal bid.”

Mr Robertson said he has cross-party support for the initial approach.

-RNZ