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In a world where narratives often create additional barriers for rainbow sport participants, Aotearoa New Zealand proudly embarks on a ground-breaking chapter in its sporting history. The Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024, in partnership with New Zealand Rugby, is delighted to announce the inclusion of Rugby 7s in its inaugural multisport Games, ushering in a new era of safe and inclusive participation.
This monumental event aims to deliver the most inclusive male-identifying (cisgender, transgender and non-binary AMAB) and female-identifying (cisgender, transgender and non-binary AFAB) team competition in the nation's history, while challenging traditional binary models of cisgendered sport.
While the organisers endeavour to create inclusive and empowering events for diverse rainbow communities, participants do not have to identify as LGBTQI+ to join in the fun and excitement, offering an unparalleled opportunity to reap the benefits of sport. By creating a safe and inclusive space, players can showcase their skills, passion, and dedication, regardless of their gender or identity. The partnership between the Rainbow Games and New Zealand Rugby is an essential step forward in making this vision a reality.
The health and safety of participants is paramount, and as a contact and collision sport, both parties understand that additional considerations must be taken. As part of the commitment, New Zealand Rugby will be creating a bespoke risk management plan based on the playing experience of entrants.
"Sport has a tremendous ability to unite and empower people. The Rainbow Games 2024 aim to set a new benchmark for inclusive sport across the region, enabling all participants to reap the benefits of sport and earn their fundamental right to participate as the truest version of themselves. We are thrilled to embark on this journey with New Zealand Rugby to create such an environment for Rugby enthusiasts", says Rainbow Games 2024 Event Director, Tom Leonard.
Rugby 7s is one of 14 sports on the programme, which also includes: netball, badminton, swimming, running basketball 3x3, diving, football 5-a-side, lawn bowls (Bowls3Five), roller derby, softball, tennis, ten-pin bowling, touch and volleyball 4s. For seasoned athletes or complete beginners, each sport offers different grades and classifications to ensure everyone has a meaningful experience playing a diverse range of participants from across the Pacific, and beyond.
Thriving on the values of Turangawaewae (place and belonging), Manamotuhake (self-determination), Hauroa (enhancing wellness), and Manaakitanga (supported approach), the Rainbow Games 2024 welcomes rainbow people and allies from near and far. Registrations is now open and the early bird offer is now live, which is $120 for the rugby 7s competition, which includes:
• Registration to Rugby 7s
• A ticket to the spectacular opening and closing ceremonies
• Player accreditation
• A goodie bag filled with surprises
• Travel discount options
• Access to an arts, culture, and social hub to connect with fellow participants
• Amazing discounts at selected retail and hospitality outlets.
The full price is $150, so don't miss out on this fabulous opportunity to save. Hurry, though! The Early Bird offer is available until 31 October 2023, or until the first 30 registrants have claimed their spots (per sport). So, lace up your boots and sprint to the registration page to secure your place in this thrilling sporting celebration.
For more information or any inquiries, please contact us at kiaora@rainbowgames.co.nz. We look forward to witnessing the transformational impact of inclusive sports and the powerful stories that will unfold at the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024.
