The games were officially opened by Dunedin North MP and the Minister of Health, David Clark, at the Games Village on the University of Otago campus.
Competitors took part in a march-past behind their sport code banners and there was a ceremonial lighting of the games torch which symbolises the spirit of athletic competition and universal friendship that is at the core of the NZ Masters Games.
The games are sponsored by the Otago Community Trust and the Otago Daily Times. In declaring the games open, Dr Clark told competitors to go hard, and to enjoy testing themselves and striving for their personal bests but also made a ministerial plea.
"As Minister of Health can I urge you all to look after yourselves and listen to the advice of any health professionals you have consulted. While I have absolute faith that our public health system will give you quality care for any health injuries, the less strain we can put on our hardworking doctors and nurses, the better for all of us," he said.
Games ambassador and former All Black Bryan Williams is looking forward to his official duties in Dunedin.
"I had the great enjoyment and honour of being an ambassador for World Masters Games 2017. There were so many special moments across so many different sports. The competition, the camaraderie, the sportsmanship, the fun and enjoyment made it a unique experience. So when I was asked to be an ambassador for the NZMG 2018, I jumped at the opportunity," Williams said.
Former Silver Fern, and games ambassador Jodi Brown, said the games had always been very special to her.
"I was born and bred in Whanganui [the alternate venue for the games]. My brother and I were often dragged around the various sports as Mum and Dad competed and socialised. It was a highlight for them every second year. Right from being a nipper, I have experienced the true spirit of the games and the pure enjoyment that it brings everyone involved," she said.
New Zealand Masters Games Association chairman John Bezett said the country’s largest sporting event injected $5million into the city’s economy. More than 4500 competitors will take part in 60 events over nine days, until February 11.
The Masters Games promotes a healthy, active lifestyle, particularly in older people. While the majority of competitors are aged between 30 and 50 we do have more than 400 people aged 70 plus and 12 are over 80.
