Photo caption: Special Olympics New Zealand athletes are arriving in Christchurch for the National Summer Games which open tonight. Credit: Special Olympics New Zealand.
The halls are hosting athletes, along with their caregivers and coaches, taking part in the Special Olympics New Zealand (SONZ) National Summer Games which open today.
The Games are being held in Ōtautahi Christchurch for the first time in 20 years, and athletes with an intellectual disability from 42 clubs around the country have been training hard for their events.
The age of competitors ranges from teenagers to some aged in their 70s. Those who do well in the competition here can qualify to represent New Zealand at the 2027 Special Olympics World Games in Chile.
UC volunteers and hall staff have been preparing for the new guests – accommodated while students are on holiday - across five different halls of residence operated by UC’s accommodation partners; Arcady Hall, UniLodge and College House. More than 7,500 UC bed nights will be provided over five days. Each athlete will have a colour-coded lanyard showing which hall they are staying in until the games end on Sunday.
Wayfinding signs have been installed and plans are in place for safe transport drop-off and pick up points for the athletes.
UC Executive Director of People, Culture and Campus Life Paul O’Flaherty says it has been a big planning exercise over the last two years gearing up for the event and it’s exciting to see the first athletes arriving at the halls.
“We’re looking forward to all of the athletes having an enjoyable time staying with us and competing at venues around the city. It’s really a pleasure to be part of this fantastic, inclusive community event.
“Health and safety of the athletes and their support crew is paramount and our UC team has been liaising with Christchurch City Council and Canterbury Civil Defence. UC Security staff will also be providing support as needed.”
With coordination by UC Accommodation Services, more than 50 UC staff and students are volunteering during the games, including UC Health students taking part in SONZ’s Healthy Athletes programme.
University of Canterbury Bachelor of Digital Screen with Honours students have also been producing, filming and editing videos about some of the local athletes taking part, and have made a welcome video for visiting athletes. Watch one here.
It’s not too late to register for free tickets to tonight’s National Summer Games Opening Ceremony at the Wolfbrook Arena where the Olympic Flame of Hope will be lit. Register here.
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