The Halberg Games South wrapped up this weekend, marking the second time this exciting event has brought together young athletes with physical disabilities from across the South Island, including Halberg Games first ever participant from the West Coast. Held at Ngā Puna Wai Sport Hub and Rangi Ruru Girls’ School the Games provided a unique opportunity for regional teams to enjoy a weekend of inclusive sport, competition, and camaraderie.
Hosted by the Halberg Foundation, the Games showcased a wide range of sports, including athletics, wheelchair basketball, archery, gymnastics and swimming, offering participants the chance to display their skills or give something new a try, in a supportive and fun environment.
Halberg Foundation Chief Executive, Tom Smith, emphasised the importance of the Games, stating, “The Halberg Games South is an opportunity for our young people to come together, build friendships, and experience the joy of inclusion in sport. We are immensely proud of all the participants and their communities that supported them this weekend.”
The Games continue to grow, offering a space for young athletes to engage in sport, form lasting connections, and gain confidence both on and off the field, court, track or pool. As the event continues to evolve, the Halberg Foundation remains committed to ensuring that more young people across New Zealand have access to meaningful sporting opportunities.
Halberg Games South celebrated the incredible talent and perseverance of its athletes and recognised 13 award winners for their outstanding achievements over the weekend.
Regional Team’s Most Valuable Team Member;
- Tasman – Sienna Gussette
- West Coast – Max Jones
- Canterbury – Pankhuri de Vries
- South Canterbury – Finn Tregurtha-Nairn
- Otago – Zara Duncan
- Southland – Pippa Judd
Flight Center Supporter of the Games – Malik Ammar’s Family, Canterbury
Volunteer of the Games – Dominic McLachlan
Lindsay Foundation Fair Play Award – Millie Oram, Tasman
ISPS Handa Moment of the Games – Georgina Latta, South Canterbury
The Aotearoa Gaming Trust Spirit of the Games (male) – Alex Lang, Canterbury
Joyce Fisher Spirit of the Games (female) – Liana Bowron, Tasman
Mondelez Team Spirit of the Games – Tasman
Plans are already underway for the 2025 National Halberg Games, which will be held in Auckland at King’s College from 24 April – 26 April 2025. The national Halberg Games will have participants representing all regions from across the moto.
