Over 250 young people with disabilities come together in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland for two days of sport, celebration and community
More than 250 young people with disabilities, alongside their whānau and supporters, came together at King’s College in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, for the 11th edition of the Halberg Games. It was a celebration of sport, inclusion and possibility, with action across more than 25 sports.
For Halberg Foundation, the Games are more than just a sporting event. It reflects the organisation’s mission to create opportunities for tamariki with physical disabilities to experience the joy of sport and recreation, breaking down barriers and empowering young people to focus on what they can do.
Athletes and their whānau travelled from 16 regions across Aotearoa to take part, with many experiencing a multi-sport event for the very first time.
The Games were officially opened by Hon. Chris Bishop and celebrated Paralympian Dame Sophie Pascoe, who encouraged participants to embrace the experience, build connections and believe in their potential.
“I am so confident that there are future Paralympians here at the Halberg Games who will go on to make New Zealand proud at the Paralympic Games in 2028, 2032 and beyond,” said Hon. Chris Bishop.
Addressing the athletes, Dame Sophie Pascoe reminded them not to let disability define them.
“I don’t just see people here. I see determination, potential, and a community that supports and learns from each other,” she said, encouraging participants to say yes to opportunities and take on new challenges.
Despite the event being shortened to two days due to forecasted weather conditions, the spirit of the Games remained undampened. A full schedule of activities was successfully delivered, showcasing the resilience, passion and enthusiasm of all involved.
Across the two days, athletes participated in a wide range of sports including swimming, athletics, gymnastics, badminton, bowling and more. From first-time competitors to returning athletes, each moment reflected the confidence, skill development and sense of belonging that the Halberg Games foster.
Beyond competition, the Games created space for connection and celebration. Highlights included the Halberg Mile, where families and supporters walked, ran, cycled and skated together in honour of Sir Murray Halberg’s legacy, as well as lighter moments with face painting, a sausage sizzle, and opportunities for athletes to relax and connect. A disco night on the opening day added to the sense of fun and camaraderie.
At the closing ceremony, athletes, teams and supporters were recognised for their achievements, sportsmanship and contribution to the spirit of the Games.
The Sir Murray Halberg Cup for overall achievement at the 2026 ISPS Handa Halberg Games was awarded to Tiana Grey (Team Manawatū), recognising excellence across multiple sports, leadership and commitment to Halberg values.
“I never thought I would win this award. But I trained very hard in swimming and that’s probably why I have won it. I hope there will be a day where I can swim representing New Zealand,” she said.
The David Levene Foundation Award for Most Promising Athlete was presented to Tamahau Hicks (Team Waikato), while Team Gisborne received the Milner Mobility Team Spirit of the Games Award for their inclusive and supportive culture.
Cayden Pollock was awarded the Aotearoa Trust Spirit of the Games Male Award, and Rylee Sayer (Team Waikato) received the Joyce Fisher Trust Spirit of the Games Female Award for her encouragement and support of fellow athletes.
Shannon Murphy was recognised with the ISPS Handa Moment of the Games Award for her inspiring opening speech, while Team Manawatū received the Lindsay Foundation Fair Play Award. The Flight Centre Foundation Supporter of the Games Award was presented to Cat Wilson, acknowledging the vital role of supporters in uplifting athletes throughout the competition.
Most Valuable Player awards were also presented across all regions, highlighting not only sporting performance but also teamwork, resilience and the spirit of inclusion.
As the Games concluded, athletes, families and supporters left with more than just medals and memories. They carried with them a renewed sense of confidence, connection and endless opportunities.
Carrying forward the legacy of Sir Murray Halberg, the Halberg Games continue to demonstrate the life-changing impact of inclusive sport.
The Games will return next year, once again bringing together young New Zealanders to experience the joy of sport.
Awards for Most Valuable Player:
Northland: Shirley-Mahinarangi Waipouri
Auckland: Jemma Bishop-Read
BLENNZ: Caleb Jackson
Waikato: Te Hoka-o-te-rangi Wanikau
Bay Of Plenty: Mahy Hammonds
Gisborne: Jacque Cornelius
Hawkes Bay: Liv Fountain
Taranaki: Eden Fairweather
Manawatu: Jakob Openshaw-Clark
Whanganui: Tiare Rawiri-Hohaia Tuwhakararo
Wellington: Roc Blizzard
Tasman: Azaria Noble
Canterbury: Kyle Endicott-Davies
South Canterbury: Charlie Hall
Otago: Flynn Sutherland
Southland: Madeline Connard
