NEW SPORTING CODE SUBMISSIONS

Since launching in Tauranga Moana in 2004, the Zespri AIMS Games has grown from just 750 athletes to over 14,000 competitors from across New Zealand and beyond. What began with four sports has now expanded to include 27 different codes, reflecting the event’s incredible growth and popularity.

Each year, the AIMS Games Trust carefully reviews applications for new sports and assesses existing ones to ensure the programme continues to offer a diverse, exciting, and inclusive experience for intermediate-aged athletes.

*PLEASE NOTE THAT NEW SPORTING CODE SUBMISSIONS FOR THE 2026 ZESPRI AIMS GAMES ARE NOW CLOSED*

​​​​​​​

2027 New Sporting Code Submissions

Proposals should be submitted electronically to -

Kelly Schischka, Tournament Director

kellys@nzaimsgames.co.nz 

By 5pm, Monday 2nd March 2026 

Enquiries can be directed to Kelly at the email address above.

​​​​​​​

How New Sporting Codes Are Considered

Each year, the AIMS Games Trust welcomes submissions for new sporting codes. To ensure the event continues to deliver a high-quality and inclusive experience, all proposals are carefully assessed using a set of key criteria.


Essential Requirements

To be considered, a proposed sport must meet the following compulsary criteria:


  • Dedicated Leadership: A qualified and designated Code Coordinator must be in place to manage the sport.

  • Athlete Eligibility: The sport must align with the existing Zespri AIMS Games eligibility criteria.

  • Venue Availability: A suitable and accessible venue must be available to host the competition (note - it is unlikely that existing Zespri AIMS Games venues will be made available to accommodate a new sporting code).

  • Official Endorsement: The sport must be supported by its regional and/or national sporting organisation.

  • Inclusive Participation: The sport must provide opportunities for athletes with disabilities to take part.

  • Financial Sustainability: The sport must be able to operate without placing undue financial strain on the event.


Additional Considerations

Beyond the compulsary criteria, we also evaluate submissions based on the following factors:

​​​​​​​

  • Contribution to the Event: How the sport enhances the overall appeal and diversity of the Games.

  • Current Participation: The level of engagement among Year 7 and 8 students across New Zealand.

  • Projected Numbers: Anticipated athlete turnout at the Zespri AIMS Games.

  • School Involvement: Whether the sport is already featured in school competitions nationwide.

  • Operational Fit: How well the sport’s logistics align with our event guidelines.

  • Pathways for Growth: Opportunities for athlete development within the sport.

  • Economic Impact: Potential to attract sponsorship or foster national/international partnerships.

  • Social Value: Positive contributions to the community and the spirit of the Games.

  • Overall Impression: The strength and clarity of the proposal as a whole.


Submitting a New Sporting Code for 2027

If you’re interested in proposing a new sport for inclusion in the 2027 Zespri AIMS Games, submissions must be sent to the Tournament Director by Monday, 2 March 2026. To be considered, your proposal should include the following details:


Key Information to Include

​​​​​​​

  • Eligibility Criteria: Confirm that athlete eligibility aligns with Zespri AIMS Games registration guidelines.

  • Category Structure: Outline divisions such as Boys, Girls, Open, Year Group, or Age-based categories.

  • Inclusive Participation: Describe how athletes with disabilities will be supported and included.

  • Estimated Participation: Provide current participation numbers for 11–13-year-olds across New Zealand.

  • Entry Requirements: Specify any registration criteria or grades (e.g., golf under a 32 handicap).

  • Promotion & Public Support: Share how the sport will be promoted and supported by the regional and/or national sporting body in the lead up to and during the event.

  • Existing Event Structure: Detail how the sport is currently run in regions throughout New Zealand.

  • Development Pathways: Highlight regional systems and opportunities for athlete progression.

  • Official Endorsement: Include backing from the sport’s regional or national organisation. If the submission isn’t from the national body, a letter of support from them is required.

  • Safety & Welfare: Outline your risk management plan, safety procedures, and player welfare strategies.

  • Budget Estimate: Include a full budget covering estimated personnel, officials, equipment, venue hire and other costs.

  • Sponsorship: List any potential sponsors or funding sources.

  • Format & Programme: Describe how the event will run, including its structure and schedule.

  • Sport-Specific Rules: Include the rules that will govern competition.

  • Venue Details: Identify a suitable venue and outline its requirements.

  • Equipment Needs: List all required equipment, who will supply it, and associated costs.

  • Officials & Referees: Detail the number and availability of officials, and any development opportunities for them.

  • Tournament Impact: Explain how the sport will enhance the overall Zespri AIMS Games experience.

  • International Reach: Share any national or international relationships and expected overseas participation.

  • Code Coordinator: Confirm that the sport's regional or national body will appoint a qualified coordinator to work closely with the Tournament Director and Competitions Manager. This person will oversee planning, budgeting, health and safety, reporting, and liaise with key event partners including registration, operations, medical, and results teams.