Special Olympics National Summer Games Kicks Off All Over Christchurch

Lots of laughter and fierce competition mixed with a few nerves were the hallmark of the first day of competition at the Special Olympics 2025 National Summer Games in Ōtautahi Christchurch, this morning.

More than 1200 athletes with intellectual disabilities from 42 clubs nationwide are competing in 10 sports at six venues across Ōtautahi Christchurch until December 14 at the National Summer Games hosted by Special Olympics New Zealand.

Chief Executive Special Olympics Chief Executive Fran Scholey says the games starting in earnest was a special milestone for not only the athletes, but also the many coaches, volunteers, supporters, sponsors and families who have given so much to make the event happen.

“We are away to an amazing start. There is just so much energy and enthusiasm from everyone involved at every venue,” she says.

“It is wonderful to see the camaraderie among the athletes, many of whom haven’t seen each other since the last games in Hamilton three years ago. It is great to see not only the athletes reconnecting, but also their families.”

Today marked the first competition in both the pool and also indoor courts at the new Parakiore Sport and Recreation Centre.

The first ever swimming race in the new venue, the 800m was won by Tate Pichon of North Harbour – a long-distance swimmer who continued his strong form from Hamilton.

The basketball courts were a hive of activity, particularly with the arrival of All Blacks captain and Games Ambassador, Scott Barrett.

Barrett was mobbed by enthusiastic fans, including Porirua basketballer, Joshua Condliffe who produced a Crusaders rugby jersey from a backpack that Barrett has signed at a training session with the Special Olympian two months ago.

“I brought it to Christchurch with me as I heard Scott might come to the games. He asked me if this was my team or do I wear it undercover. I said I do, but seriously I think he is great. I thought he would be taller though,” Joshua says.

Marlborough’s Ben Leslie, known affectionately as “six-eight” or the “gentle giant” because of his height, was able to eyeball Barrett when he posed for a photo.

Ben is competing in the 10-pin bowling and sought out Barrett when he heard he was at Parakiore.

“I’m obsessed with rugby and support the South Island teams. I think Scott is just fantastic,” Ben says.

Canterbury basketballer Darius Byen was equally impressed with Barrett when he and his team lined up for a photograph. Dairus had plenty of supporters of his own watching his two games this morning.

Darius is a member of the MenzShed Halswell and several members, including manager, Tim Joyce were courtside.

Joyce and his team worked on extending the length of five beds at the University of Canterbury’s College House to accommodate five basketballers too tall for the custom-sized beds.

Barrett was having just as much fun as the athletes, spending hours at the venue and posing for countless photographs with both individuals and teams. He has a personal connection with Special Olympics with his younger sister Zare having competed in Special Olympics events.

“I’ve been completely blown away by the energy and excitement here today. There is a real buzz. I love seeing all these athletes playing sport.

“Everyone in New Zealand should have the opportunity to embrace sport. It gets people out, meeting and connecting with others and challenging themselves.”

Barrett’s Crusader team mates are also visiting the games this afternoon, adding even more excitement to an event that will take over the city for the next four days.

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