MND NZ Reappointed as Official Charity Partner for 2026 NZ Masters Games

We’re proud to share that Motor Neurone Disease NZ has once again been named the official charity partner for the 2026 New Zealand Masters Games, taking place in Ōtepoti Dunedin from 31 January to 9 February 2026.

The NZ Masters Games is the largest and longest-running multi-sport festival for Masters athletes in Aotearoa, and this renewed partnership is a powerful opportunity to raise awareness of motor neurone disease (MND) and the work we do to support those affected.

MND is a fatal, rapidly progressing neurodegenerative disease that attacks the nerves controlling movement, leaving people unable to walk, talk, eat, or eventually breathe. It does not typically affect the senses, but it can leave people locked in a failing body. There is no known cure, and two New Zealanders are diagnosed with MND every week.

“This partnership helps us connect with thousands of athletes and supporters across the country,” says Laura Huet, Marketing and Fundraising Manager at MND NZ. “It’s a chance to raise awareness, share real stories, and invite people to stand with us in the fight for better care, more research, and ultimately, a cure.”

MND NZ provides free, community-based support to people living with MND and their whānau, while also funding and supporting New Zealand-based research. In 2024, we supported 483 people with MND, including 134 newly diagnosed, and delivered over 12,500 hours of personalised support.

Participants in the 2026 Games will be invited to make a voluntary $5 donation when registering, or can donate directly at mnd.org.nz/donate.

Together, we can make time count.

To learn more about the Games, visit www.nzmg.com.