With under six months until they start, the Masters Games are coming into view.
The 2026 Games were launched on Tuesday night in Dunedin with a range of activities on offer — from archery to wine tasting.
The Games were first held in Dunedin in 1992, alternating with Whanganui each year, and they will make their 17th appearance in the city from January 31 to February 8.
This year’s Games’ ambassadors are Kate Ivey and Kees Meeuws.
Ms Ivey is the founder and chief executive of Kate Ivey Fitness and DediKate, which aims to help New Zealanders live positive, healthy and fit lives.
Mr Meeuws, a former All Blacks prop, is a real estate agent in Dunedin.
Both ambassadors have similar advice for those planning to take part in next year’s Games: "Start now, slowly building your fitness, don’t leave it until the last minute. You’ll get more out of the Games if you are fit."
Games manager Vicki Kestila said her staff, as well as about 80 volunteers and 120 sports partners, were busy preparing.
"It’s my seventh Games, so I think that’s got to be lucky! There’s a packed lineup of sports and entertainment that’s going to make for an awesome week," she said.
The Edgar Centre will be the Games’ hub, hosting a variety of entertainment, and there will be other events around the city.
Masters Games Dunedin board chairman John Brimble shared in the excitement.
"The Games are of huge benefit to Dunedin, the lower South and to all those who participate.
"We look forward to welcoming everyone."
There are more than 60 sports lined up, and three new sports on offer: extreme petanque, Brazilian jiu jitsu and 500.
Registrations for all sports opened at 9am yesterday. — Allied Media
