OPENING CEREMONY

Kick off the 2026 Zespri AIMS Games with an unforgettable celebration of sport, spirit, and community. The Opening Ceremony is designed to inspire competitors and set the tone for an incredible week of school sporting championships.


Event Details


Date: Sunday 6 September 2026

Venue: Mercury Baypark Arena, 81 Truman Lane, Mount Maunganui


Show 1:

  • Starts: 3:00 PM (doors open at 2:00 PM)
  • Ends: approx. 4:15 PM

Show 2:

  • Starts: 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:00 PM)
  • Ends: approx. 8:15 PM
  • Students/Children: $25.00
  • Coaches/Managers/Adult Supporters: $35.00
  • Booking fees apply. Final 2026 fees will be confirmed in the April 2025 Opening Ceremony newsletter sent to participating schools.
  • No limit on ticket quantities per school.

Please note:

​​​​​​​

  • Seating is limited. We ask schools to be selective when purchasing adult tickets during the pre-sale period. It is not necessary for parents to attend unless they are fulfilling a supervisory role
  • Due to venue capacity regulations, all attendees — including toddlers and infants — must have their own ticket. Lap seating is not permitted.​​​​​​​

Choosing the Right Show


If your athletes are likely to compete on Sunday afternoon, we recommend booking Show 2 (7:00 PM) to avoid scheduling conflicts.


This is especially relevant for:

​​​​​​​

  • 3x3 Basketball
  • Futsal
  • Gymnastics (select sessions)
  • Rock Climbing (select sessions)
  • Swimming (select sessions)
  • Yachting

Netball teams: All Sunday games will finish early to allow attendance at either ceremony, unless otherwise advised.

Ticket Sales Timeline


  • Monday 27 July: School group pre-sale opens
    • One order per school
    • Ordering details sent to the school’s designated Zespri AIMS Games contact via the registration portal
  • Monday 3 August: Public ticket sales open (if tickets remain after pre-sale)

Note: Each year, at least one Opening Ceremony typically sells out during pre-sale. We strongly recommend securing tickets early.