Chance for Northlanders to join Kiwi team for Commonwealth Games

Two-time Olympic gold medal-winning rower Eric Murray will lead a six strong crew of everyday New Zealanders with the national Commonwealth Games team. Photo / Getty Images

Northlanders have the opportunity to be part of the Kiwi Commonwealth Games team - without stepping foot on a sporting field.

New Zealanders are being invited to put their best foot forward and apply to be part of the official New Zealand Commonwealth Games Team for the April event on the Gold Coast, it was announced yesterday.

Six special Kiwis will get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of the Games team and play a key role in the areas of team services, social media or team drivers.

ANZ has partnered with the team to give New Zealanders the chance to show their support for the athletes on a whole new level.

New Zealand Olympic Committee CEO Kereyn Smith said she's delighted that New Zealanders can be part of the team behind the team at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

"The Commonwealth Games connect communities up and down New Zealand as we support our athletes," she said. "For ANZ to be giving every day Kiwis the chance to get close to the action and help support the team is fantastic."

ANZ Ambassador and Olympic gold medal rower Eric Murray will lead the ANZ crew on the Gold Coast. He can't wait to bring together six passionate New Zealanders who want to help their country and experience this sensational event.

"ANZ wanted to create a unique way for New Zealanders to be able to connect with the team," Murray said.

"Athletes can't succeed on their own and rely on help from many others, so those selected will have a really important job, and get to live and breathe the excitement of the Games."

As well as providing support, winners will also attend the athletes' welcome function, return home on the team plane and attend official functions. The prize includes 15 nights' accommodation and $2000 spending money.

People over 18 can apply at anz.co.nz/joinourteam by telling ANZ why they think they would be a great New Zealand Commonwealth Games Team member. Those shortlisted will go through an interview process, with the winners being announced mid-March.