As the largest junior sporting event in the Southern Hemisphere, the Zespri AIMS Games is proud to welcome students from around the world. We believe that sport is a universal language - one that brings people together, celebrates diversity, and builds lifelong connections.

Welcoming international schools to the Games helps foster global citizenship and gives young athletes the chance to experience different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. These experiences help prepare students for an increasingly connected world.

We are delighted to once again invite international schools to participate in the 2026 Zespri AIMS Games. All international athletes must meet the same eligibility criteria as New Zealand participants, and entry fees are listed in New Zealand dollars.

As with domestic schools, international schools are responsible for organising their own travel and accommodation. If your school is considering attending, we encourage you to get in touch with our team early. We’re here to support you with any questions and can help connect you with local contacts to assist with planning your visit.

Pōhiri for International Athletes

​​​​​​​

To warmly welcome our international athletes to Aotearoa, we are honoured to host a traditional Māori pōhiri (welcome ceremony) at Tauranga Intermediate School on Saturday, 5th September 2026.

We kindly ask that all international athletes registered for the 2026 Zespri AIMS Games attend this special event, where they will be formally welcomed to Tauranga Moana. The pōhiri is a meaningful cultural experience and a significant part of our commitment to manaakitanga (hospitality) and whakawhanaungatanga (building relationships).

We encourage school coordinators from international schools to include this event in your team’s itinerary and ensure your students have the opportunity to participate in this unique and memorable start to their Zespri AIMS Games journey.