New Zealand Masters Games sets up camp in central Whanganui

The New Zealand Masters Games begin on Friday. Photo / Bevan Conley

Organisers of the 2021 Downer New Zealand Masters Games are counting down the hours until kick off.

More than 100 people are working at the Whanganui War Memorial Centre over the next two days, setting up to welcome the thousands of competitors.

Games organiser Rachel O'Connor said it has been a busy few months but everything is running smoothly.

"It's just everything falling together from now on," O'Connor said.

"It's organised chaos.

"This is the cool part where all the different contractors and partners come together to pull it off."

Previously based at Springvale Park, this is the third event where the Games Hub has been moved to the middle of town at the foot of the steps of Pukenamu Queens Park.

The Masters Games officially get into gear on Friday evening with an opening ceremony, live entertainment and speeches before sports begin on Saturday.

"Everyone exits the Games Hub and congregates at Majestic Square, and we're welcomed on with a ceremony," O'Connor said.

The New Zealand Masters Games begin on Friday. Photo / Bevan Conley

The games had met its goal of 4500 entrants, over 300 more people than in 2019.

"We're over that now, so that's awesome. It's great considering the year everyone has had. We have been really positive with it."

Two new events have been added to 2021 edition of the games - jigsaw puzzle racing and cowboy action shooting.

"Jigsaw puzzle racing has sold out," O'Connor said.

"Cowboy action shooting has had hundreds of entries. They have been really well received."

The Whanganui War Memorial Centre and forecourt will be transformed into the Masters Games hub for the next two weeks. Photo / Bevan Conley

Football [11-a-side] and athletics are always extremely popular, she said.

O'Connor was looking forward to the Games getting under way after months in preparation.

"It's fantastic to be able to host the New Zealand Masters Games here in Whanganui, as it brings extensive economic benefit to the city, as well as showcasing how unique Whanganui is," she said.

"A highlight of this is its multiple sports venues with an easy distance to each other, which amazes visitors."