The Commonwealth Games: The Bid for 2034

New Zealand has expressed interest in hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2034, a global multi-sport event that takes place every four years and unites athletes from member countries of the Commonwealth of Nations. The Commonwealth Games presents a remarkable opportunity for countries to demonstrate their sporting abilities, culture, and tourism industry. New Zealand has previously hosted the event three times, in Auckland in 1950 and 1990, and in Christchurch in 1974.

Hosting the Commonwealth Games is a significant undertaking that requires a substantial investment in infrastructure and planning. However, the potential to showcase the country’s unique culture and natural beauty to the world presents a rare opportunity.

New Zealand has previous experience in hosting international sporting events, such as the 2011 Rugby Union World Cup. This alone makes it a highly desirable candidate for the Commonwealth Games.

By hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2034, New Zealand can elevate its international standing and bolster its tourism industry. The economic benefits of the event could leave a lasting impact on the country’s economy. Additionally, the event promotes cultural exchange and understanding,  making it a symbol of inclusivity and diversity. New Zealand’s history of diversity and inclusion would be celebrated by hosting such a remarkable event.

The New Zealand Olympic Committee

The New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) is responsible for overseeing New Zealand’s participation in the Olympic Games and other international events. The NZOC believe that hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2034 would be a great opportunity to promote New Zealand sports. More importantly, it would encourage more young people to get involved in sports.

Historical Context

New Zealand has a rich history of sporting success in the Commonwealth Games. This includes a total of 706 medals, including 179 golds, 232 silvers, and 295 bronzes. The country’s three previous hostings of the event were considered great successes. In particular, the 1974 Christchurch games is remembered as a landmark event that set the standard for subsequent Commonwealth Games and cemented New Zealand’s reputation as a capable host of major sporting events.

Future Events

Although the NZOC’s interest in hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2034 is still in the initial stages, the organisation has stated that it will work closely with the government, local authorities, and sporting bodies to develop a strong bid that meets the requirements of the Commonwealth Games Federation.

Exciting Times Ahead

While hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2034 would be a significant development for NZ, it would demonstrate the country’s desire to showcase its unique culture and natural beauty to the world. The NZOC has a history of organising international sporting events, and its involvement in the bid is a sign of its past successes.

A  successful bid would also provide an opportunity for New Zealand to create new infrastructure and provide long-term benefits to its sporting community and tourism industry. The bid is still in the early stages, but it will be exciting to see how it develops in the coming years.