Global Games a national success

A youth sports festival hosted in Taupō has been recognised alongside some of New Zealand's most prestigious sporting events.

Global Games is a finalist in three categories at the 2026 New Zealand Event Awards.

The New Zealand Junior Rugby Festival, held annually in Taupō, attracts teams from around New Zealand and overseas.

It has been named as a finalist for Sport Event of the Year, Community Event of the Year and Sustainability Initiative of the Year.

Other finalists include the ASB Classic and New Zealand Open.

Global Games Founder Tyrone Campbell says the recognition is a proud moment not only for Global Games, but for the entire Taupō community that has supported the event over many years.

"To see an event hosted in Taupō recognised on the national stage alongside some of New Zealand's biggest sporting events is incredibly humbling.”

He says while Global Games is behind the event, this recognition belongs to the thousands of young people, families, volunteers, coaches, managers, referees, supporters and community partners who have been involved.

"We are particularly grateful for the support we have received from the Taupō community, local rugby clubs, venues, businesses and Taupō District Council over the past 17 years.

They have welcomed us, backed our vision and played a significant role in helping us grow into one of New Zealand's largest youth sporting events.”

The New Zealand Junior Rugby Festival attracts more than 140 teams and thousands of visitors each year, generating economic and community benefits.

But it also creates opportunities for young people to connect through sport, Tyrone says.

The event has also become a leader in sustainability initiatives, with Global Games working alongside partners on initiatives to reduce waste and create more environmentally responsible sporting events.

"We are up against events with significantly larger budgets, resources and commercial backing, which makes this recognition even more special.

"It shows that creating positive experiences for young people, supporting communities and using sport as a vehicle for good is something worth celebrating.”

Global Games returns to Taupō in September to host both the New Zealand Junior Rugby Festival and the New Zealand Junior Girls Rugby Festival.

Winners will be announced on August 5.