NZ to host World Masters Games

Auckland's hosting of the Rugby World Cup has helped the city secure the Masters Games in 2017. Photo / Sarah Ivey

Auckland has won the hosting rights for the 2017 World Masters Games off the back of last year's Rugby World Cup performance.

International Masters Games Association president Kai Holm officially awarded the rights to Auckland Mayor Len Brown today, saying he believed the city would be a fantastic venue.

"We have seen what Auckland put on for Rugby World Cup 2011 and we know the city and the rest of New Zealand will embrace the World Masters Games."

Mr Holm said Auckland should be congratulated on its outstanding bid, and that athletes from around the world would look forward to the games in in the city.

The multi-sport event is one of the largest in terms of competitor numbers, and more than 35,000 people from 30 different sports, including track and field, basketball, surfing, swimming, cycling and volleyball, expected to compete in Auckland.

It will be held at more than 35 venues across the Auckland region, and is expected to contribute $53.5 million to New Zealand's GDP, including $37 m to Auckland's GDP.

Prime Minister John Key, who is also the Minister of Tourism, said the news was a "significant win".

"This international event will draw tens of thousands of people to the country and inject millions of dollars into the economy," Mr Key said.

"This is a vote of confidence in New Zealand as a venue for major international sporting events and, we hope, this is one of many more to be staged here following on from the success of the Rugby World Cup."

It will be the first time the games are held in New Zealand. They were last held in Sydney in 2009, and will take place in Italy's Turin next year.