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Who are USNZ?
USNZ is the national body responsible for the development of sport and physical recreation for university and tertiary students. One of two national university student bodies (the other being NZ University Students Association); the organisation works alongside sports and recreation providers on campus, and outside agencies, to maximise opportunities for its members.
What does University Sport do?
University Sport NZ encourages students and school leavers to participate in sport through joining campus based sports clubs, and campus recreation activities. USNZ also provide sport development through giving opportunities for coaches, administrators and athletes to develop from campus level sport through to national representation.
USNZ provides facilities and events for national tertiary competition such as the The New Zealand University Games, The Winter Games (snowsports), Tertiary Rowing Regatta, New Zealand University Cricket Championships, International University Sports Events and assists regional tertiary sporting challenges where required.
How do I find out about individual sports?
Each sport is represented by a USNZ sports council on a national level. Sports council are responsible for the development of their sport, nationally and internationally. USNZ provides training and development for these sports councils to grow and develop activities over the year.
Please view the Sports Pages for information on your sports council repersentatives.
I am leaving secondary school. Who do I contact about University Sports clubs?
Contact the Clubs Development Officer in your area and attend the clubs days, which usually occur during orientation week.
How do I become involved in a university sports club?
All campuses have a ‘clubs day’ where university sports clubs provide information for students wanting to find out about sports that are available.
When did New Zealand University Games begin? How many have there been?
The first NZU Games was held in 1902 at Canterbury University. Otago, Canterbury, Victoria and Auckland competed. There were 3 sports contested - tennis, athletics and debating. Over the years further sports were added to the competition. Boxing and Shooting were added in 1921, Basketball in 1927, Swimming in 1930 and Rowing in 1932.
How many sports are available at the New Zealand University Games?
The NZU Games offer 28 sports, with several other sports (such as snow sports and cricket) running their own separate tournaments throughout the year. The sports are divided into shield sports that are represented by USNZ sports councils and demonstration sports.
For more information on individual sports contact the USNZ office on admin@universitysport.org.nz or call us on (04) 499 3550.
Can I represent New Zealand at an international level?
Yes. There are the World University Summer Games, World University Winter Games and World University Championships. See FISU for details.
Who can compete at World University Games?
To find out the criteria for competing in the World University Games, please see the World University Summer, and Winter Games eligibility pages.
FISU criteria states that all competitors must fulfil the following conditions: Be officially registered students who are enrolled on a full-time basis at a university or a similar establishment whose status as a university is recognised by the appropriate academic authority of their country. They must be former students of the establishments mentioned in the previous article who have received their degree or diploma in the previous year; be nationals of the country they represent and be between the ages of 17 and 28 years at the time of the World Student Games.
How do I get to compete?
You must compete for your campus at the New Zealand University Games and USNZ national events and obtain selection for the NZU Representative Team to attend any World Student Games representing New Zealand.
What if I have other representative duties at the same time as the NZU Games but want to represent NZU?
You must apply in writing to University Sport New Zealand stating your reasons. This will be forwarded to selectors.
Exemptions will be given for:
- International duties
- International selection
- Special cases
How much does it cost to attend the World Student Games?
To attend the Winter and Summer Universiade athletes have to self fund the trip. University Sport New Zealand contributes to the cost of the medical team and management. Food and accommodation are usually USD$45.00 per day and a one off participation fee of $20.00 USD. Flights are variable based on the location of the event.
How do I find out about New Zealand University teams and tours?
Contact the National Development Manager at University Sport New Zealand for details on upcoming events and tours. Arsel.Alsam@universitysport.org.nz
How do I get a New Zealand university blues award?
There are campus Blues Awards which, if you meet the criteria, are awarded by a campus-based panel. To find out what the criteria is contact your CDO .
For the prestigious New Zealand University Blues Awards, the criteria, for each sport is set by the national sports body, and is ultimately decided by an experienced New Zealand University blues panel. For criteria, a nomination form and winners go to the NZU Blues Section.
What sports administration and practical experience is available through University Sport?
Email the USNZ office on admin@universitysport.org.nz for details.
