Teachers wearing Asia New Zealand Foundation t-shirts watching children play baseball in Japan

Sports

Hākinakina

About our Sports Programme

Our sports programme leverages the appeal of sport to forge cultural connections. It provides New Zealand sportspeople opportunities to grow their knowledge of Asia, establish connections and develop relationships with their counterparts throughout the region.

Hado E Blacks beat expectations at Shanghai tournament

For the first time, the Hado World Cup was hosted in China—set against the vibrant, high-energy backdrop of Shanghai. Out of more than 60 nations that play the fast-paced augmented reality sport, only 18 qualified to compete for the coveted world title. Among them was New Zealand’s Hado E Black led by team captain Lavay Arora. In this article Lavay shares his firsthand experience of the tournament and what it meant to represent his country on a global stage.

Team members putting incense sticks into sand at a shrine

Sports / News

Hockey, culture, and camaraderie: 1st XI's tour of Singapore and Malaysia

The Napier Boys’ High 1st XI hockey team recently embarked on an unforgettable tour through Southeast Asia, immersing themselves in the gleaming modernity of Singapore and the vibrant energy of Malaysia. Facing off against local teams in both countries, the tour offered more than just competition—it became a cultural journey. In this article, team member Harry Baxter reflects on an experience the players will "remember forever," one that has sparked a deeper interest in Asian cultures. Thanks to support from the Foundation’s Student Sports Fund, the team was also able to incorporate a range of cultural activities into their itinerary.

Sports / News

The power of cultural exchange: high school takes kapa haka to Japan

The power of cultural exchange to connect people and foster friendships was on full display during Wainuiomata High School's Japan visit for kapa haka and Japanese language students late last year. The journey deepened the students’ understanding of both Japanese and Māori cultures, connecting them and those they met through music, dance and language writes deputy principal Matauranga Te Rauna.

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The Rising Impact of Asia on Sport in New Zealand

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Sports / Grant

Sports Leaders Fund

The Foundation's Sports Leaders Fund enables New Zealand sports leaders to travel to Asia to deepen their understanding of the region’s sporting landscape, enhance cultural awareness and establish meaningful connections.

a group of ten people on a football pitch listening to a coach

Sports / Internship

Sport Singapore internship

The Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono, in collaboration with Sport Singapore, is delighted to offer an exciting internship opportunity for two young New Zealanders at Sport Singapore in 2025.

Sports / Grant

Sports Connector Programme

The Sports Connector programme brings Asia-based sports professionals and thought leaders to Aotearoa New Zealand to engage with local counterparts and share insights at national forums and conferences.

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