Tauranga is gearing up to host the largest-ever Zespri Aims Games, with more than 14,000 young athletes from 431 schools across Aotearoa and the South Pacific to hit the city from August 30 to September 5.

Residents and visitors, particularly those in Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa, are urged to plan ahead, especially when travelling to and from key locations, Tauranga City Council said in a statement.

Athletes encouraged to use public transport

To support athletes and supporters in getting to their games, Tauranga City Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council are providing a free loop bus service between the Mount Hot Pools and Gordon Spratt Reserve.

The specially branded Zespri Aims Games buses will stop every 30 minutes at the main venues Blake Park, Baywave, Mercury Baypark and Gordon Spratt Reserve, including stops at the Mount Hot Pools and the Mount Mainstreet shops, the council said.

They are also available for members of the public to travel on.

Image / Tauranga City Council

These buses will also help transport athletes to the two sold-out opening ceremonies at Mercury Baypark on Sunday, August 31.

“Bus travel is an integral part of Tauranga City Council’s annual Give Back Games initiative, promoting sustainable travel options and helping reduce pressure on the city’s transport network.

“Athletes who take part in these sustainability-focused activities, such as using the Zespri Aims Games buses, will earn points for their school towards the Kaitiaki Trophy.”

Bus and timetable information can be found here.

Roadworks scaled down during Zespri Aims Games

To minimise disruption during Aims week, most roadworks across the city will be scaled back, particularly on main routes leading to sports venues.

Emergency works will continue as required to maintain public safety.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi has also implemented a moratorium on roadworks during the event across state highways around the city.

The only exception is the Tauriko Enabling Works project, which will continue as scheduled due to its long-term strategic importance.

Parking safety a priority

Parking will be in high demand around the sports venues, the council said.

“Safety will be the main focus of the council’s parking team during the Zespri Aims Games, especially when it comes to preventing people from parking dangerously on traffic islands, footpaths, and grass areas where large numbers of people are moving.

“Event and venue-specific travel and parking information has been provided to all registered schools, and participants are encouraged to follow signage and conditions at each venue. Monitoring and enforcement will be in place to ensure safe and accessible movement around the city.”