The highly anticipated return of the New Zealand Masters Track & Field Championships is set to take place in Christchurch this weekend after a 14-year hiatus, last hosted at QEII in 2010.

Over three days at Ngā Puna Wai Sports Hub, this event is expected to draw over 220 participants, spanning an age range of 30-95 and featuring competitors from New Zealand, New Caledonia, Fiji, Australia, and other Pacific Islands.

Andrew Stark, President of New Zealand Masters Athletics, has been the driving force behind bringing this event back to Christchurch. With a history of both, competing and organising the last event in 2010, Stark's unwavering efforts have been instrumental in bringing the championships back to the city.

Anticipating a blend of competition and camaraderie, Ian Thomas, General Manager of Athletics Canterbury, highlights that competitors are as competitive as they come.

“They still want to get the gold whether they’re in their 60s or 70s, that doesn’t go away with age.”

“The beauty of this event is it’s like a reunion for many, catching up with peers and rivals from around the country who they’ve competed alongside for years.”

Katrina Mansfield, Partnership and Activation Manager at Ngā Puna Wai, encourages the community to check out this unique event, highlighting the presence of international competitors and past record holders.

“We’ve had all age groups on the track this summer, and hosting this event for the first time will be quite special.”

Scheduled to kick off at 4.00pm on Friday, 16 February, and running through to Sunday 18 February, this event promises fair competition and a vibrant social atmosphere amongst athletes and spectators.

More information on the event can be found here: Events for February 2024 – NZ Masters Athletics