REGIONAL ADVISOR SPOTLIGHT
For this month’s Regional Advisor Spotlight, we shine a light on Joseph, Halberg’s Auckland and Counties Manukau Advisor, who also took on a key leadership role as Event and Sports Manager at the Halberg Games 2026. With a unique perspective across both regional delivery and event operations, Joseph reflects on a year that tested plans, strengthened connections, and ultimately highlighted the true spirit of the Games.
Looking back on the 2026 Halberg Games, Joseph sees it as a powerful demonstration of resilience and community. With severe weather threatening to disrupt the event, the weekend required constant adaptation and quick decision-making. However, rather than taking away from the experience, these challenges brought people closer together. The collective determination to create moments of joy, while ensuring everyone remained safe, became a defining feature of the Games.
For Joseph, the Halberg Games continue to hold deep personal significance. Each year, the event serves as a reminder of the purpose behind his work – creating inclusive sporting opportunities for young people with disabilities. It’s an environment where the impact of that work is seen and felt in real time, leaving him re-energised and motivated long after the Games conclude.
Behind the scenes, delivering an event of this scale is no small feat. Months of planning go into ensuring every detail is considered, but at the heart of it all is a clear priority: creating a space where athletes and their whānau feel a genuine sense of belonging. Joseph reflects that while sport is the foundation, it is the connections formed between people that truly define the Games. Whether it’s friendships within teams or interactions across regions, fostering those moments of connection remains a central focus.
This year, the need to compress a three-day event into two added another layer of complexity. Schedules shifted, plans changed, and flexibility became essential. Yet, what stood out most to Joseph was the positivity shown by everyone involved. Athletes, in particular, embodied this mindset – moving between events with enthusiasm, supporting one another, and embracing every opportunity to compete and connect.
Across the weekend, there were countless memorable moments. From the energy of the Opening ceremony to standout performances on the track, the Games once again delivered unforgettable highlights. Watching Dame Sophie Pascoe take to the track was a special moment, while emotional celebrations, such as the presentation of the Sir Murray Halberg Cup, captured the pride and achievement felt across the community. Acts of teamwork and support, like the DSA team rallying behind Parafed Gisborne, further reinforced the inclusive and supportive environment that defines the Games.
However, for Joseph, it is often the quieter, unscripted moments that leave the most lasting impressions. The small acts of encouragement between athletes, the shared celebrations, and the genuine connections formed throughout the weekend are what truly bring the Games to life.
One moment in particular, stood out as a reflection of everything the Halberg Games represent. On the final night, as weather conditions left some participants stranded at King’s College, the gym quickly transformed into a space of connection and fun. Athletes and whānau came together to play boccia and wheelchair basketball, embracing the situation with positivity. The laughter, participation, and sense of togetherness in that moment captured the essence of the Games more than any planned activity could.
This year’s experience was also especially meaningful on a personal level, as Joseph shared the Games with his son, George, for the third time. Watching George engage so naturally – cheering on athletes and celebrating their efforts – was a proud moment. It reinforced the importance of creating inclusive environments where future generations can learn the value of support, empathy, and community.
Reflecting on the full journey, Joseph takes the greatest pride in the collective effort behind the Games. From staff and volunteers to athletes and whānau, it was the shared commitment and positivity that ensured the event remained a success despite the challenges.
Ultimately, Joseph hopes that everyone who attended the 2026 Halberg Games walked away with more than just memories. He hopes they felt a sense of belonging, built confidence, and recognised that they are part of something bigger – a community where they are supported and valued in sport.
It is this sense of community that continues to inspire Joseph year after year. The people – their energy, resilience, and positivity – are what make the Halberg Games such a special and meaningful event to be part of.
