Opening ceremony boycott report denied

The New Zealand team has categorically denied they are planning to boycott the opening ceremony at the Commonwealth Games.

Some overseas reports are claiming the team is concerned about safety at the event, but a New Zealand Olympic Committee spokesperson told Newstalk ZB the team will be marching and that's never been in doubt.

New Zealand supported Canada, Scotland and the Isle of Man in their concern over a possible change of timings mooted by organisers. But that concern has now been resolved. The original plan is back in place and a large number of kiwi athletes will attend the ceremony overnight.

Earlier reports of a boycott came from Britain's Daily Telegraph newspaper which said there was a threat from New Zealand, Scotland, and the Isle of Man would shun the three-hour ceremony following a chefs de mission meeting. Canada had also raised concerns but later agreed to take part.

The newspaper report said one of the concerns related to the length of time the athletes would have to stay in the main stadium, as many countries said they wanted their athletes to march but then return immediately to the village, missing the cultural show and the official opening speeches.

Earlier, Currie told NZPA that the decision over participation would be up to individual sports and athletes.

About two-thirds of New Zealand's contingent of athletes and officials were expected to march in the ceremony behind netball player Irene van Dyk, who was unveiled as the team flag bearer this morning (NZT).

Currie predicted that about 190 of the 290-plus New Zealand team would be in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

The women's hockey team, who are due to open their campaign against Wales the following morning, have decided to miss the ceremony.

Swimmers in action on the first morning of competition are also unlikely to take part.

- NZPA/Newstalk ZB