In a significant coup for New Zealand, Tauranga was today confirmed as host city of the 2028 World Triathlon Championship Final in a three-year partnership with World Triathlon, culminating in the elite World Triathlon Championship Final, Age Group World Championships, Para triathlon World Championships, and World Triathlon Congress coming to the heart of Bay of Plenty in November 2028.

Triathlon New Zealand made the announcement in Tauranga this morning, alongside event partners the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), Tauranga City Council (TCC), and World Triathlon.

The three-year partnership sees Tauranga host a World Triathlon Cup in 2026, a World Triathlon Championship Series race in 2027, and the World Triathlon Championship Finals, Age Group World Championship, and Para triathlon World Championships in November 2028, events that will see significant economic impact and global exposure for the region and country.

Triathlon New Zealand CEO and World Triathlon Executive Board Director Pete de Wet spoke to the enormity of the news at the event launch in Tauranga. “Today is a momentous day for Triathlon in New Zealand. After an absence of 16 years, the World Triathlon Championship Series Final will be returning to our shores in 2028, and we couldn’t be prouder. Triathlon has such a rich heritage in Aotearoa New Zealand, and we are excited to be adding to that history over the next three years.

“Our Age Group athletes are loved around the world for their unique Kiwiana approach, and I am so pleased for all those that are dedicated to attending World Championship events around the world, that they will finally have the chance to do this at home, in Tauranga, in 2028. And for our Elite Athletes, who campaign for so much of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the chance to race at home, in front of their family, friends and fellow New Zealanders will be truly special!

“My sincere gratitude to New Zealand Major Events and Tauranga City Council for having the foresight and belief to support our bid host these events, to World Triathlon for having the faith in our ability to host, and to Shanelle Barrett and SB Events as our delivery partner for their incredible contribution these past three years and for the work yet to come as we bring this to life. 

“My wish is that all New Zealanders, regardless of ability, get involved in Triathlon over the next few years, and when the time comes, welcome the world to our shores, with open arms.”

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston is excited about hosting these high-profile World Triathlon events, attracting international visitors to New Zealand and giving a major boost to the economy. “Over the three years, the events are expected to attract more than 6000 international
visitors, generating 100,000 international visitor nights and $25 million in tourism visitor spend.

“We’re proud to be able to bring these international sporting events to New Zealand through the Major Events Fund, supporting high-performance sport, driving more sport tourism, and showcasing our country on the world stage.”

Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale was also on hand at this morning’s gathering at Trinity Wharf and is ecstatic about the announcement. “Securing the World Triathlon events is a landmark achievement for Tauranga - one that reflects our aspiration to be a premier destination for major international events.

“Tauranga already boasts a proud triathlon heritage, with annual events such as the Mount Festival of Multisport, the Tinman Triathlon, and the Surfbreaker Triathlon, delivering strong community engagement and economic benefits. Hosting three of the sport’s most prestigious international events will build on that momentum and elevate our city to the world stage.

“Across all three events, the city is projected to welcome thousands of international and domestic visitors who will generate significant visitor nights and bring in approximately 11 million dollars in visitor spend to the Tauranga economy. These events are about more than sport - they’re an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy. From inspiring the next generation of athletes to boosting tourism, showcasing our manaakitanga, and creating enduring economic and social benefits, the impact will be felt well beyond the finish line. We’re proud to welcome the international triathlon community to Tauranga, Aotearoa, New Zealand, and to show the world all that our city and region have to offer.”

World Triathlon President Antonio Arimany is excited at the prospect of triathlons biggest event returning to a country with a rich and proud heritage in the sport, having previously hosted the pinnacle event in the sport in Queenstown in 2003 and Auckland in 2012. “We all know that New Zealand, Tauranga, is a place of travel, we are very happy that we will all be able to celebrate the big party of Triathlon in New Zealand.”

“After Auckland many years ago, we are coming back to New Zealand to celebrate the biggest event we have in our sport. I’m looking forward to seeing you all there, and encourage everyone, we will have a great time in New Zealand, in Tauranga, see you all there.”

These events have been made possible through the collaboration and support of New Zealand Major Events, Tauranga City Council, TECT Community Trust, Triathlon New Zealand, and event delivery partner SB Events.

 The three-year partnership sees Tauranga host a World Triathlon Cup in 2026, a World Triathlon Championship Series race in 2027, and the World Triathlon Championship Series Grand Final, Age Group World Championship, and Para triathlon World Championships in November 2028

 Precise dates and details of each event will be revealed in the weeks and months ahead.

 Events will take place in Tauranga, with our stunning coastal setting and surrounds showcased to the world over three years of world-class racing.

 These events will attract thousands of athletes, supporters, and spectators over the three – year cycle (4,500 total athletes  expected for World Triathlon Championship Finals 2028 alone).

 The three-year partnership will generate 6000 international visitors, 100,000 international visitor nights and $25 million in tourism visitor spend.

 The events will be streamed, broadcast, and promoted globally, putting New Zealand and Tauranga in front of a global audience, promoting tourism and trade.

 Alongside the sporting events, the World Triathlon Congress in 2028 will bring over 160 international delegates to Tauranga, offering economic benefits for the regions business, convention and accommodation sectors.

 Volunteer and employment opportunities from these events will help foster community involvement, upskilling and ongoing pride.