About

The New Zealand Rural Sports Awards celebrate the people who embody the passion, dedication, and spirit of rural sport. Since the inaugural awards in 2017, the event has recognised the athletes, officials, volunteers, and communities whose achievements have often gone unnoticed, shining a spotlight on the people who help shape New Zealand’s rich rural sporting landscape.

The Awards celebrate a diverse range of rural sports, from woodchopping and timbersports to shearing, tree climbing, and many more. Nominations are submitted by each rural sporting organisation, ensuring those with a deep understanding of their sport can recognise the individuals who have made an outstanding contribution. Winners are honoured across a range of award categories, each celebrating excellence, commitment, and service within rural sport.

The awards evening is also an opportunity to give back. Funds raised throughout the event support the New Zealand Rural Games Trust Scholarship, helping young people pursue opportunities in rural sport and food and fibre-related study. In 2026 we also raised funds for Lean on a Gate, a charity established to maintain and build connections within the rural community as part of advocacy work for mental health and wellness. A highlight of the evening is the charity auction, featuring generously donated items and experiences. Previous auction items have included Olympic cycling race suits, All Blacks shorts, and a signed New Zealand BMX jersey donated by Olympian Sarah Walker.

Following the New Zealand Rural Sports Awards, attention turns to the New Zealand Rural Games. Combining elite competition with fun, interactive “give it a go” events, the Games celebrate New Zealand’s unique rural sporting traditions while bringing communities together to connect, compete, and inspire the next generation.