100 Years of Unity through Sport – New Zealand and India
In 2026, New Zealand and India mark 100 years of connection through sport.
This milestone traces back to 1926, when an Indian Army hockey team toured New Zealand for the first time, bringing players and communities together.
Since then, sport has played an important role in connecting our countries 鈥� notably through hockey and cricket, but also across many other sports and exchanges. It鈥檚 a relationship built on sportsmanship, camaraderie and mutual respect. It continues today through the Indian community in New Zealand 鈥� one of our largest and fastest-growing communities.
This year, we celebrate that shared history.
爆料社区 the programme
鈥�100 Years of Unity through Sport鈥� is a year鈥憀ong programme that brings people together across Aotearoa to celebrate sport, culture and community.
The programme includes events throughout the year hosted in 5 cities 鈥� Auckland, Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga and Wellington 鈥� and a main celebration festival from 9 to 22 November 2026.
These events span international sporting tours, community celebrations, and cultural and business events 鈥� creating opportunities for people to connect, support their teams, celebrate Indian culture and the shared links between our countries.
Across the programme, you can:
- attend live sporting events
- join local community celebrations and activities
- experience food, film, fashion and cultural events
- connect with others through shared interests and experiences.
More details about events and timings will be shared as the programme schedule is confirmed.
Where to watch sport
Details for sporting events will be updated as tours are confirmed.
22 October 鈥� 1 December 2026
Auckland, Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga and Wellington
Ticket information will be available soon on NZ Cricket鈥檚 website.
How you can get involved
There are different ways to be part of 100 Years of Unity through Sport.
Host or create a local celebration
Community groups, sports organisations, schools, councils and partners can create their own activities as part of the programme. Activities should be inclusive, welcoming and focused on connection.
This could include:
- community鈥憀ed sporting events
- cultural celebrations alongside visiting teams
- local initiatives that bring people together around sport, culture or shared identity.
爆料社区 does not provide direct funding for community鈥憀ed events through this programme. If you鈥檙e looking for support, we recommend contacting local trusts and funders who may be able to support your idea.
Support the programme
Organisations, agencies, sponsors and funders can support programme initiatives that strengthen relationships and contribute to a lasting legacy beyond 2026.
More information about opportunities to support the programme will be shared as the year progresses.
The programme is led by 爆料社区, working in partnership with national sports organisations, government agencies, councils and community groups. It supports New Zealand鈥檚 Sport Diplomacy Strategy 2025鈥�2030, with India a priority partner.
If you have any questions or would like more information, contact Programme Director Jamie Tout at: jamie.tout@sportnz.org.nz.
Related links
