Next week THE bayofplentytimes.co.nz will have live streaming of the AIMS Games.

There are more than 20 sports included in the schedule but specific details are still to be confirmed.

More than 12,000 visitors are expected to begin arriving in Tauranga later next week for the 13th annual AIMS Games.

The AIMS Games is now Tauranga's biggest and most successful major event will see nearly 9300 intermediate-aged school children from 275 schools from around New Zealand, Tonga and the Cook Islands compete in 21 sporting codes.

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"The AIMS Games is now considered to be the International Championships for Intermediate and Middle schools", said Vicki Semple, tournament director.

"It is a pathway to sporting success for many of our local students."

Tauranga City Council is a proud supporter of the AIMS Games, providing the majority of hosting venues used between September 4 and 9. Many of the 16 venues are council-owned or controlled and some are the premier sports venues in the city, including ASB Arena, Baywave, parks and reserves, the Tauranga Harbour and other great spaces.

This year the council teamed up with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council to sponsor a free park and ride bus shuttle for the Games for competitors and their families/supporters.

The AIMS Games is the premier sporting event for 11, 12 and 13 year olds, supported by a strategic partnership between Sport Bay of Plenty, Tauranga City Council and the four Bay of Plenty intermediate schools.

The event makes a significant contribution to the economic prosperity of our city, reflected in the support Tauranga City Council gives to it each year. This year the funding has been through the council's Major Events Fund.

"The AIMS Games is so much more than just a sporting tournament", said Mayor Stuart Crosby.

"It fosters community spirit and local pride, as well as promotes the Tauranga area and boosts the local economy. It is a chance for all residents to really show off our city".