March 05, 2026

#hakinakina: Hauraki Games 2026 Set to Bring Thousands Together in Paeroa

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 5, 2026

Hundreds of whānau from across the Hauraki rohe are preparing to gather in Paeroa later this month for the Hauraki Games 2026, a growing annual event that blends sport, culture and community connection.

The Games will be held on Saturday 21 March at Te Puru o Te Rangi, Paeroa Domain, with organisers expecting between 1,000 and 4,000 people to attend across the day. Around 20 marae and pā from throughout the Hauraki region are expected to take part, bringing together tamariki, rangatahi, pakeke and kaumātua in a celebration of whanaungatanga and iwi pride.

Organised by the Hauraki Games committee, the event aims to strengthen relationships across marae, hapū and iwi while encouraging healthy lifestyles through sport and physical activity. The kaupapa places a strong focus on hauora and cultural connection, creating a space where friendly competition sits alongside the revitalisation of tikanga and community identity.

A range of sporting codes and activities will be staged throughout the day, with programmes designed to ensure participation across all age groups. Tamariki activities will feature prominently, providing opportunities for younger members of the community to take part in sports modules and interactive games.

Alongside the sporting programme, the event will also include hauora and wellbeing initiatives, with community providers offering health information and services. There will also be iwi information and enrolment support, helping strengthen connections between whānau and their iwi organisations.

New additions to the programme this year include a Kaumātua Games, designed specifically to encourage participation among older members of the community. The initiative will be led by Hariata Adams of Te Korowai Hauora o Hauraki, creating opportunities for kaumātua to engage in activities that support wellbeing and social connection.

Another new element for 2026 is Tapu Āriki, a cultural activity led by Punehu Wilson from Te Mata o Kaiwaka, adding a deeper cultural dimension to the day’s programme.

Organisers say the Hauraki Games continues to grow each year, reflecting the strength of collaboration between iwi organisations, community groups and local supporters who share a common goal of empowering whānau through kaupapa Māori values.

With teams and supporters travelling from across the wider Hauraki region, the Paeroa Domain is expected to take on a vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the day.

The event will run from 7am through to 5pm, and entry is free, with organisers encouraging whānau from across the rohe to attend and take part in a day that celebrates community, culture and connection through sport.