First published on 6 October 2025 on Newsline

With the doors of New Zealand’s largest indoor sport and recreation venue set to open before the end of the year, the 2026 calendar is already filling up with national competitions and events.

Swimming New Zealand and Basketball New Zealand have signed on with Christchurch City Council to make use of the brand-new spaces at Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre on Moorhouse Avenue. 

Council Head of Recreation, Sport and Events Nigel Cox says bringing the events to Christchurch and Parakiore is “a huge win for the city”.

“Having these exciting events in our own backyard is not only a boost to our local athletes and sports fans but will also have positive impacts for the whole city.”

Swimming New Zealand will hold their Short Course Championships at Parakiore from 27 September – 1 October 2026.

“Our swimming community can’t wait to be competing at Parakiore in the brand-new facility.

“Having the opportunity to race and swim in the heart of Christchurch for the first time since 2010 is something that will help the growth of our sport immensely, and showcase everything our sport has to offer," says Dale Johnson, Head of Participation, Competitions and Engagement, Swimming New Zealand.

Swimming New Zealand estimate around 1350 athletes, coaches and supporters will travel to Christchurch for the championships, with around 150 local athletes also set to compete.

Basketball New Zealand is also bringing the Foot Locker U16 National championships to Christchurch in July 2026.

“Parakiore’s world-class show courts and central location make it an ideal venue for showcasing the next generation of basketball talent.

“For many of these young athletes, it will be their first experience competing on a stage of this scale, and we know it’ll be a memorable one,” says Jay Macdonald, Kaiārahi Tātāwhāinga (Tournaments Lead), Basketball New Zealand.

More than 400 competitors and 2000 spectators are expected to attend the four-day event.

“As well as the positive buzz the athletes, coaches and supporters will bring to the city, there’ll also be economic benefits. Parakiore is just a stone’s throw from some of the best cafes and restaurants Christchurch has to offer, lots of accommodation options, as well as the Botanic Gardens and other local attractions,” says Mr Cox.

The Council continues to work with regional, national and international sporting organisations to secure hosting rights for further events.

“We’re aiming to secure around 12 national or international events and 15-20 regional events each year for Parakiore. This is in addition to events being held at the Council’s other recreation and sport venues like Ngā Puna Wai,” says Mr Cox.

Construction of Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre is nearing completion and will be handed over to the Council this month. Parakiore will open to the public in late 2025, once the operational fit-out, load testing and site-specific staff training has taken place.

Image credit: Swimming New Zealand, Basketball New Zealand & BW Media.