Tauranga and Nelson will see over 2,235 young athletes take to the track in January as the 2026 North and South Island Colgate Games roll into town.
Over 2200 athletes aged 7 to 14 are registered for the nation’s biggest children’s athletics event, a clear sign that athletics is thriving nationwide, building on a golden era of international success.
The iconic event, which has been a mainstay for thousands of Kiwi families each summer, features two massive weekends of track and field across both the North and South Islands.
Participation is strong across the country, with 1,344 athletes registered for the North Island edition to be held at the Tauranga Domain, from the 9th to the 11th of January. Over 100 more athletes have entered this year’s edition than last year’s Hastings edition. While at the top of the South Island, 890 athletes are set to compete in Nelson. Canterbury is bringing a strong contingent, with over 400 entrants, comprising almost half of the competition.
The North and South Island Colgate Games will get a taste of top Kiwi star power, with a top athlete ambassador bringing the energy at each event. 2024 Olympic Champion and 2025 World Champion, high jumper Hamish Kerr, will join in the action in Tauranga as the North Island ambassador. While 2020 Paralympic champion and 2025 World Para Athletics Silver Medallist, Holly Robinson, will be supporting the South Island games.
Head of Track and Field Events, Keegan McCauley, was excited to see these two major events take place this January, “The Colgate Games are the heartbeat of junior athletics in New Zealand. Seeing more than 2,300 kids lining up this summer is incredible. These events aren’t just about competition; they’re about creating lifelong memories and new friendships, and building the fundamental skills that Athletics helps develop in our Tamariki. Tauranga and Nelson are going to be buzzing.”
This year’s major numbers come with major support. Colgate-Palmolive has extended its naming rights partnership of the games through to 2028, which will mark the 50th edition of this iconic event. The Colgate Games have been a cornerstone of Kiwi athletics for decades, and this renewed commitment ensures thousands more young athletes will have the chance to experience the fun of competition.
“We are absolutely delighted to commit to the Colgate Games for the next three years,” said Alex Opie, General Manager of Colgate. “This event is a perfect fit for our brand purpose,’ as it actively supports thousands of young athletes in building confidence, new friendships, and a positive outlook for their futures. We are thrilled to continue creating those smiles alongside Athletics New Zealand.”
Athletics New Zealand Chief Executive Cam Mitchell adds:
“We’re seeing unprecedented engagement at the grassroots level. Kids are inspired by the success of Kiwi athletes on the world stage, and the Colgate Games is where that dream begins. Colgate’s continued support means we can keep growing this event and creating opportunities for young athletes nationwide.”