Double Finalist Honour for 2024 WMH Masters Hockey World Cup at NZEA Event Awards
Hockey New Zealand is proud to share that the 2024 WMH Masters Hockey World Cup has been named a finalist in two categories at the upcoming NZEA New Zealand Event Awards:
· Community or Not-for-profit Event of the Year (under 3000 participants)
· Sports Event of the Year
Held in November 2024, the World Masters Hockey (WMH) Masters World Cup brought together over 2,500 players, across 129 teams representing 23 countries, celebrating hockey at its most inclusive and inspiring. The tournament also delivered a substantial economic benefit, with over $20 million in visitor spend across Auckland and New Zealand.
Finalist recognition places the event among Aotearoa’s most impactful and beloved experiences. In the Community or Not-for-profit category, the tournament stands alongside the Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge, Iwi of Origin 2024, and the Ōpōtiki Matariki Festival. In the Sports Event of the Year category, the World Cup shares the spotlight with major fixtures including the Zespri AIMS Games, the New Zealand Sail Grand Prix, and Auckland FC’s debut match at Go Media Stadium.
Matthew Arnold, Hockey New Zealand Events and Commercial Operations Manager, reflected on the recognition:
“The 2024 WMH Masters Hockey World Cup was a truly incredible event that brought together players from all walks of life. The tournament was incredibly well hosted by North Harbour Hockey Association and is a testament to the dedication of many – from the tournament Event Manager, Cameron Wilson, to the wider team behind the scenes. A huge thanks also to Major Events New Zealand and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited – this event wouldn’t have been possible without their support. It’s a real credit to everyone’s mahi to be nominated alongside such great events.”
Hockey New Zealand extends thanks to North Harbour Hockey for their outstanding work in hosting and operational delivery, and to the broader team of volunteers, partners and organisers who made the tournament possible. We look forward to being able to host this one again in the future.
Award winners will be revealed at the NZEA Event Awards Gala Evening on 2 September 2025 at Claudelands Events Centre.