Football event to help build unity

Teams will converge on Wellington this weekend for the New Zealand Communities Football Cup. Photo / iStock

Teams including refugees from countries as far-flung as Brazil, Poland and Zimbabwe will converge on Wellington this weekend for the New Zealand Communities Football Cup.

Many players were former refugees, and police said the cup helped build unity and community spirit.

Players from clubs including Auckland Somali Lions F.C. and Refugee Youth Action Network (RYAN) will take part.

The event includes a youth forum and football skills clinic.

Team members, police officers and Junior All Whites footballer Noah Billingsley were expected to speak with young former refugees at the forum.

"Sporting initiatives such as this are a great way to support the inclusion of all communities in New Zealand," Police National Strategic Ethnic Advisor Inspector Rakesh Naidoo said.

"Many of these talented players have come from diverse backgrounds and have a lot to contribute to New Zealand and communities as a whole."

The tournament would also support and promote the White Ribbon campaign to end men's violence towards women.

All players will be taking the White Ribbon pledge at the opening ceremony.

The tournament starts on Saturday at 9.45am, with games at Wakefield Park in Island Bay and Prince of Wales Park in Mt Cook.